Annual inflation in Bulgaria rose to 7% in May, according to the National Statistical Institute’s preliminary flash estimate, marking a further acceleration from 6.8% in April. On a monthly basis, consumer prices increased by 0.2%, signaling continued upward pressure on household costs.
The NSI data show that price growth in May was led mainly by several key categories. Transport recorded the sharpest increase at 1.2%, followed by restaurant and hotel services at 0.9%, and alcoholic beverages and tobacco products, also up by 0.9%. At the same time, some segments saw declines, including entertainment, sports and culture, which fell by 1.9%, and personal care, social protection, and other miscellaneous goods and services, down by 0.3%.
The harmonized inflation measure, used for comparison across the European Union and tracked by Eurostat, stood at 6.3% on an annual basis. Final figures for May are expected to be published on June 15, when the preliminary assessment will be confirmed or revised.
Preliminary estimates also indicate that inflation has reached its highest level in nearly three years, last seen in August 2023. Analysts note that the monthly increase of 0.2% follows a stronger 1.8% rise recorded between March and April, highlighting persistent price momentum in the economy.
