Bulgaria
Bulgaria is situated in South Eastern Europe and has a population of 7.6m. It has a strategic location near the Turkish Straits and controls key land routes from Europe to the Middle East and Asia. It has experienced economic stability and strong growth since a major economic downturn in 1996 led to the fall of the then socialist government. Steady progress on structural reforms has improved the business environment; Bulgaria has averaged 4% growth since 2000 and has begun to attract significant amounts of foreign direct investment.
Economic Strengths
EU Accession in January 2007. Coal, natural gas and agriculture. Strong FDI
Economic Weaknesses
Outdated infrastructure and outstanding debt. Corruption & organised crime. Weak judiciary. Rising inflation.
| Population | 7,583,675 |
| Capital city | Sofia |
| Currency | Lev |
| World GNP Ranking | 66 |
| Unemployment | 8% |
| Inflation | 7.32% |
Source: Central Intelligence Agency; The World Factbook, March 2009