On May 8, Bulgaria’s newly-elected Prime Minister, Roumen Radev, announced his government’s commitment to tackling rising prices without implementing price caps. Instead, Radev emphasized using market economy tools to ease the financial burden on citizens and streamline retail chains. Legislative changes are being crafted to enhance transparency in pricing and curb unfair competitive practices. Strengthening penalties and control mechanisms for violators of fair competition is part of this strategy, as is encouraging cooperation among Bulgarian producers to facilitate easier market access.
Radev expressed concern over “arm-twisting” practices that pressure local producers to sell at near-cost, which he believes harms sectors like dairy and livestock farming. During the first Cabinet meeting on May 8, he outlined the government’s priorities, including judicial reform, combating corruption, and safeguarding funds under the Recovery and Resilience Plan. Radev stressed the importance of a comprehensive understanding of Bulgaria’s current state, instructing ministers to conduct detailed analyses of their departments, focusing on financial health, problematic contracts, and administrative efficiency.
The government aims to dismantle oligarchic structures and establish a transparent, decisive administration to spearhead anti-corruption efforts. Radev called for an independent Prosecutor’s Office and a new Supreme Judicial Council, emphasizing that judicial reform should extend beyond appointing a new Prosecutor General. The Cabinet plans to present proposals for comprehensive judicial reforms to Parliament, aimed at making justice more accessible, fair, and swift.
Economic growth is another focal point for Radev, who advocates for a more inviting business environment in Bulgaria. This includes attracting investments, boosting digitalization, increasing electronic services, and reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Furthermore, Radev highlighted the need to modernize the Bulgarian military and address internal security challenges, such as crime and drug trafficking among youth. In foreign policy, he stressed the importance of protecting Bulgarian interests within international alliances.
Education and healthcare are also high on the agenda, with a focus on improving functional literacy and accelerating the construction of the National Children’s Hospital. Radev criticized unethical practices in the healthcare sector, calling for reforms to eliminate profiteering at the expense of patients. The government aims to guarantee social payments to vulnerable groups and enhance infrastructure and transport connectivity through public-private partnerships. In energy, maximizing domestic resource use and ensuring affordable electricity are priorities. Radev also emphasized food security, environmental balance, and the development of Bulgarian culture, tourism, and youth sports.