Calls for changes to Bulgaria’s dairy sector regulations are gaining momentum as producers warn that local milk is struggling to compete with significantly cheaper imports from other European Union countries, BNR reports.
Vladislav Mihaylov of the Association of Dairy Producers welcomed the government’s stated intention to revise the Regulation on Dairy Products, describing the move as positive. However, he argued that meaningful reform should begin through specialized working groups and a broader strategic discussion involving all participants in the sector. The association has already held several meetings with the responsible minister and is pushing for a comprehensive approach rather than isolated measures.
According to Mihaylov, Bulgaria now has the opportunity to think beyond short-term solutions. “It is time to focus on long-term competitiveness at every level, from farms and producers to processing enterprises,” he said.
Rather than introducing additional restrictions, the industry representative believes authorities should create incentives that encourage processors to purchase more Bulgarian raw milk and motivate retailers to offer more locally produced dairy products. In his view, such an approach would create fairer market conditions and strengthen domestic production without distorting competition.
