Image: BIA
On March 10, 2026, the Bulgarian Industrial Association (BIA) hosted a discussion forum entitled "Transparency in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)." The event brought together representatives of 16 branch organizations, including the Bulgarian Photovoltaic Association (BPVA), as well as companies from various economic sectors, among which were BIA members.
During the discussion, participants examined the state of the Extended Producer Responsibility system in Bulgaria, the issues within the regulatory framework, and the practical implementation of waste management policies. All business organizations emphasized that the transparent management of EPR systems is a key prerequisite for both the sustainable development of the economy and the effective functioning of the circular economy.
During the forum, the business sector expressed serious concern regarding the lack of sufficient transparency and predictability in the management of the system, as well as the inadequate dialogue between institutions and economic operators. Participants pointed out that there is currently very limited access to information regarding how funds collected through licensing and product fees are generated and spent. This calls into question the effectiveness of the system and creates grounds for corrupt practices and market distortions. Of even greater concern is the fact that the increase in product and licensing fees has a direct impact on the final prices of goods. This means that their increase affects not only businesses but also consumers, with the ultimate result being the generation of inflation.
The lack of responsiveness from the institutions and the insufficient transparency in the formation of sectoral policies hinder the operations of enterprises and create uncertainty for economic operators. In conditions of absent transparency and predictability, businesses fall victim to policies that impose an additional financial burden and disrupt the market environment, while simultaneously limiting the competitiveness of economic operators. A number of examples presented at the forum demonstrated that the product fees paid in Bulgaria by manufacturers and importers for various household goods and energy sources are tens of times higher than those in other EU member states.
The participants in the discussion also drew attention to the need to establish a clear and stable regulatory framework that guarantees a level playing field for all economic operators and real market competition. In this context, the issue of the need for legislative amendments and institutional reforms was raised, including the clear definition of roles and responsibilities regarding the collection and management of product fees. There was a unanimous consensus that the system should be liberalized to create conditions for genuine competition and transparency in the sector.
Specific proposals for improving the functioning of the EPR system were also formulated during the forum, including:
The participants in the discussion united around the understanding that the problems within the Extended Producer Responsibility system now have not only economic but also clearly defined social and political dimensions. According to them, the topic needs to receive broader publicity in order to raise awareness among both the media and the general public regarding how these policies affect businesses and the prices consumers pay.
The business sector warned that in the absence of timely solutions, economic operators will continue to be placed in an unfavorable environment, while consumers will be indirectly harmed by rising costs. Therefore, the attendees of the meeting strongly urge that the topic reach all competent institutions so that coordinated actions can be taken to find a sustainable and fair solution.
In conclusion, the organizations participating in the BIA forum appeal for active communication with state institutions and express their readiness to participate constructively in the process of drafting workable policies in the interest of both the economy and society.
Source: BIA
