The jump in fuel prices has put international carriers in Bulgaria under serious pressure. The industry warns that if the military actions continue, some companies may go bankrupt, and this will also lead to an increase in the price of essential goods.
Bus companies are already considering raising ticket prices. They report serious pressure on the sector and demand state compensation. The introduction of an additional “fuel fee“, which would be calculated in the final price of the ticket, is being considered. This will lead to a 10% price hike.
International carriers are already reporting a reduction in rates. According to the industry, the crisis could lead to bankruptcies for smaller companies. According to the sector, an increase in transport services is also possible, which will lead to a jump in the prices of basic food products by up to 7%.
Ilia Kosturski, owner of a transport company, points out that his costs have increased by 38% due to the increase in fuel prices. As a result, 30% of his fleet is no longer operational, and cargo from Germany, France and Belgium has decreased by between 70% and 80%.
“The producers themselves are refusing sales because they do not know whether the products they sell today will be able to produce tomorrow and at what price. Transport is taking the biggest burden at the moment“, said Kosturski.
Due to the crisis, some small transport companies are facing bankruptcy. “The losses are around 1,000 euros per truck per week”, he added.
The industry is demanding urgent measures from the European Commission and compensation from the state.
“If an increase in the transport service is allowed, the entire price increase will be paid by consumers in the store”, Kosturski warned.
The effect is already being felt in the retail network, where suppliers have been raising food prices for several days.
The fuel assistance mechanism should be operational by the end of the month
“They explain that with the rise in fuel prices, their prices are also rising. For tomatoes, the increase is around 15%, for some fruits - for example bananas - around 10%, canned beans have also risen in price by around 12%. "There is no change in dairy products for now," explained Desislava Alexandrova, manager of a grocery store.
The price increase is already being felt by consumers. "It's just scary. I'm afraid to go into the store. You can't shop with less than 50 euros," shared a customer.
"Gasoline is getting more expensive, so are labor costs. Goods will also get more expensive - it's inevitable," added another consumer.
Traders are currently trying to keep prices down, as they are under increased control by state regulators.
"There are currently 12 inspections underway in our stores and I can say that there is no price speculation," said Alexandrova.