The last few years have been quite turbulent for economies across the country. The municipalities of Burgas suffered the most from the crisis, but in 2021 they returned to rapid growth due to the recovery of tourism and the manufacturing industry.
The question of what the Municipality of Burgas can do to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on tourism was among the main topics discussed during the „Meeting of Businesses in Burgas and the Region“ event. It was organized by „Capital“ newspaper. The mayor of Burgas, Dimitar Nikolov, also joined her, who said:
“In addition to industry, our region is known for its highly developed tourist infrastructure. A few days ago, we opened the Northern Bypass of Burgas, which further helps with logistics. Interest in new industrial zones continues this year as well. From the Municipality of Burgas, we wish business a strong summer, a stronger wind in the sails of Burgas business, with the local government at your disposal 24/7.”
After the Burgas mayor’s speech, the most dynamic small and medium-sized campaigns in the region with the highest growth were awarded. You can see them in the video:
The first discussion was attended by:
– Kiril Yanchev – head of the „Sustainable Development“ department, UBB
– Milen Raykov – Partner, Tax and Head of Markets for EY Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo
– Dr. Eng. Ognyan Chalakov – Business Development Manager, International Armored Group. The company was founded by the Bulgarian Anton Stefov, who plans to make the first factory for armored vehicles, which will be located in Burgas.
– Stanimir Nikolov – regional representative of the German Chamber of Commerce, executive director of StoreIT.
“With such a demographic picture in Bulgaria and in the world, investors are first interested in labor, then comes the infrastructure, energy sources, etc. In Bulgaria, the field of services is developing tremendously, and people, the workforce, are being followed even more strongly there. In this regard, the Municipality of Burgas is doing well demographically. Universities are very slow to create the personnel that businesses need. Flexible education that adapts to the needs of investors, more continuing education and changing skills are needed. This makes a place attractive and the profile of investors changes and begins to follow the workforce”, Milen Raykov pointed out.
During the meeting, it became clear that among the main advantages of the district is a good demographic structure, but there are also visible challenges in terms of education and skills.
