Bulgaria and six other EU countries seek support from Brussels due to decline in tourism

Bulgaria has joined a coalition of six other European Union member states demanding urgent measures from Brussels to address the increasing outflow of tourists in eastern border regions.

In a joint letter signed by representatives from Latvia, Bulgaria, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia, it is emphasized that geopolitical risks and security concerns are having a direct negative impact on the tourism sector in these areas. According to documents published by Politico, tourist flows have shrunk significantly, threatening the economic stability of the region.

Particular concern was expressed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are facing serious challenges: reduced investor confidence, operational uncertainty, and difficult access to financing. As seasonal revenues are vital for the survival of these businesses throughout the year, the countries are insisting on concrete actions.

Bulgaria's signature on the initiative was provided by Minister of Tourism Ilin Dimitrov. He has already repeatedly signaled the difficulties facing the Bulgarian resort sector, especially along the Black Sea coast.

The countries expect the European Commission to propose specific measures within the framework of the EU Strategy for Sustainable Tourism to strengthen the competitiveness of destinations, improve connectivity, and restore confidence in the Union's eastern regions.