During the initial five months of 2026, Bulgaria experienced a notable increase in its export activity, achieving a total export value of €18.8 billion. This represents a 7.4% rise compared to the same timeframe in the previous year, based on preliminary official data. However, the country’s imports outpaced this growth, escalating by 12.8% year-on-year to reach €24.2 billion from January to May.
In May alone, Bulgaria’s exports surged by 7.8%, amounting to €3.72 billion. Meanwhile, imports saw a more substantial increase of 17.4%, totaling €4.68 billion for the month. These figures highlight a persistent trend of stronger import growth when compared to exports.
As a result of these dynamics, Bulgaria recorded a trade deficit of €5.4 billion over the first five months of the year. This trade imbalance illustrates the discrepancy between the faster pace of imports and the steady rise in exports.
The trade balance for May also reflected this pattern, with a negative figure of €957.9 million. The substantial increase in imports, surpassing the growth in exports, continues to contribute to Bulgaria’s ongoing trade deficit.