The state is introducing zero tolerance for unjustified price increases in the retail network. In case of violations, the institutions will now impose direct sanctions without issuing prior instructions. This became clear after the regular meeting of the Euro Mechanism, convened today by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov.
The meeting focused on strict compliance with the Euro Introduction Act and the protection of consumers from speculative practices in the transition period.
The National Revenue Agency (NRA) has already carried out nearly 700 inspections throughout the country. The inspections cover the entire spectrum of trade – from large hypermarket chains to small neighborhood stores and local traders.
"From the beginning of next year, the Agency will further strengthen its capacity in all its territorial directorates, so as to respond promptly to signals from citizens. Sanctions have been imposed for violations found," said the Executive Director of the National Revenue Agency Hristo Markov during the meeting.
The Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) reported thousands of inspections carried out, with the data showing a worrying trend in essential goods. According to the presented report, 80% of the violations found are related to food pricing. In medicines and household goods, the share of violations is 10% each.
The Chairman of the CPC, Alexander Kolyachev, reported that the control continues in full force and is already expanding to the services sector.
The main change in control activity comes into effect from the beginning of 2026. The institutions are ending the practice of issuing prescriptions to eliminate irregularities. Instead, unscrupulous traders will be sanctioned directly when a violation is detected.
Special attention is paid to the dual indication of prices in leva and euro on labels, which is a key element for informing citizens before the final adoption of the single European currency.