Important changes related to Bulgaria's entry into the eurozone have already come into force. Each product must be marked with two prices - in leva and in euro. The goal is to prevent unjustified price increases.
The Consumer Protection Commission and the Antimonopoly Commission will monitor unjustified price increases. In case of violations, traders with an annual turnover of over 10 million leva will be sanctioned and will be obliged to publish on their websites the prices of goods from the so-called “large consumer basket“ — about 500 products and services every day by 7 a.m. Starting from October 8, traders who do not indicate prices in both leva and euro will be fined.
Will the state manage to control unfair practices? The financier and member of the Fiscal Council - Lyubomir Datsov is on the direct line on this issue.
“The idea is not to fight any “unfair practices“ or “speculation“. This is the normal transition to a new currency. The transition from leva to euro requires double indication of prices – first, so that people get used to it, and secondly, so that it is clear and transparent. After the new year, prices will change naturally“, he said.
The problem with accusations of speculation creates tension and yellow news, which is difficult to explain. Most people and traders are correct. The point is that at the regional level, especially among small traders and producers, there is a lot of ambiguity. It would be good to have organized groups to help businesses.
And he specified that the state could invest more in an explanatory campaign and training for businesses, which would educate people and help the transition.
“We do not live in a country made up of criminals, and there is no need to think only about fighting fraud. All these analyses and recommendations reach the Ministry of Finance and other departments, but whether there is feedback — that is another question. If the state wants to help, it should organize an active and applied training campaign. Especially in small settlements, where producers and traders need clarity and support“, said Lyubomir Datsov.
And he gave a specific example:
“For example, after the new year, many practical problems will arise – how to return change in euros, how to work with stotinki, etc. If the state does not create chaos, the problems can be controlled.. Even civil servants need to be trained. Remember the case with the National Revenue Agency and “mineral water“ — there an employee made a mistake, comparing incomparable prices — promotional and regular. Under current laws, such a mistake would result in a hefty fine, which is not fair“.
The financier explained that our country is definitely late with the explanatory campaign and preparation.
When asked about the introduction of new measures with which the authorities could combat speculation, he replied:
“These measures do not work anywhere. Many of them are lobbying. There is no real mechanism in favor of consumers. Look at socialism - empty stores and “representative“ banana shops on New Year's Day were something else entirely, and are not evidence of a successful policy“.