Sofia, Bulgaria – June 3, 2025 — Major retail chains across Bulgaria have begun displaying prices in both levs and euros starting today, marking a key milestone in the country’s preparations to adopt the euro as its official currency. The change, reported by BGNES, aligns with the national roadmap for eurozone accession, currently set for January 1, 2026.
The initiative to display dual pricing is intended to help consumers gradually adapt to using euros in everyday transactions. It is also part of a broader public awareness campaign led by the Bulgarian government and central bank to ensure a smooth transition once the euro officially replaces the Bulgarian lev.
At a central Sofia supermarket that has already implemented the new system, price tags now display the euro equivalent alongside the price in levs. For example, an item that costs 1.99 levs is now also labeled as 1.02 euros, calculated using the official fixed exchange rate of 1 euro = 1.95583 levs. Shoppers interviewed at the location said they welcomed the transparency and found the conversion helpful in understanding the value of money in the new currency.
Importantly, no price increases have been reported during the implementation of dual pricing, easing concerns from consumers and consumer protection groups about potential inflation or rounding up of prices. Bulgarian authorities have issued strict guidelines to retailers, prohibiting any opportunistic pricing during the currency transition period.
“We are entering a phase where Bulgarian citizens need to become familiar with what daily items will cost in euros,” said an official from the Ministry of Finance, speaking on condition of anonymity. “This step allows people to mentally prepare and reduces confusion as we get closer to full adoption in 2026.”
Bulgaria’s official entry into the eurozone, however, is not yet guaranteed. The country must meet all Maastricht criteria, including price stability, sound public finances, and exchange rate stability. A crucial convergence report by the European Central Bank (ECB) and the European Commission is expected to be published on June 4, which will assess whether Bulgaria qualifies for eurozone membership.
Economists say Bulgaria has made significant progress in aligning with EU economic standards but caution that political and institutional stability will also weigh heavily in the final decision.
“Dual pricing is more than just a technical adjustment—it’s a signal of Bulgaria’s readiness and commitment to joining the eurozone,” said Dr. Elena Mihaylova, an economist at Sofia University. “However, everything hinges on the upcoming convergence report. If it’s favorable, we can expect the pace of preparations to accelerate.”
Public opinion on the euro remains mixed in Bulgaria, with some citizens expressing enthusiasm about deeper integration with the European Union, while others voice concerns about potential loss of monetary sovereignty and price inflation. Still, today’s rollout of dual pricing represents a tangible shift toward Europe’s common currency.
If the 2026 timeline is confirmed, Bulgaria will become the 21st member of the eurozone, following Croatia, which adopted the euro in January 2023.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members