High electricity and fuel prices are the main concern for meat processors, Atanas Urdzhanov, Chair of the Association of Meat Processors in Bulgaria, said during the traditional Elenski but (Elena pork leg) festival here on Saturday.
Inflation and high production costs are having a greater impact on the sector than the introduction of the euro itself, Urdzhanov said.
Pork prices have remained relatively stable so far, allowing producers to maintain competitive prices, he said. The situation with beef is more difficult because domestic production is insufficient and imports from other European countries are necessary.
According to figures cited by Urdzhanov, about 40% of the pork used by processors is produced in Bulgaria, while the remaining 60% comes from the European market. For beef, the share of domestic production is significantly lower, at around 20%, with imports accounting for the other 80%.
Urdzhanov also highlighted electricity costs as a major challenge for businesses, citing peak-hour prices of EUR 340 per megawatt-hour. Such levels put considerable pressure on producers, he said.
The industry expects state support to help offset high energy costs. A support mechanism is being discussed under which funds would be retained in a fund for ten months, raising concerns about whether the assistance would reach businesses in time, Urdzhanov said. Rising fuel prices are adding further pressure on the sector, he added.
More than 400 companies operate in Bulgaria’s meat-processing sector, most of them small and medium-sized enterprises. Greater cooperation among producers is needed to enable them to fulfil larger orders and meet consumer demand, Urdzhanov said.
Bulgaria should also make better use of tourist arrivals by offering high-quality local products to both domestic consumers and foreign visitors, he said. Some 12 million tourists need to be provided with quality Bulgarian food, making more active promotion of traditional products and support for local producers essential, Urdzhanov added.
High Electricity and Fuel Prices Main Concern for Meat Processors, Industry Association Head Says THE NEWS FROM BULGARIA – NEWS AGENCY 2009-2025 2026-10-17 14:22:00
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