The government’s draft budget for 2026 foresees a 30% increase in vignette fees for passenger cars starting August 1, 2026, alongside an expansion of the toll system. The proposal was discussed on BNT, where Magdalena Miltenova, chair of the Confederation of Bus Carriers, questioned whether the measure would improve road conditions or simply increase costs for users.
Further reading: Bulgaria Raises Vignette Fees by 30% Starting August 1 Under New Road Tariff Plan
Miltenova pointed out that current pricing levels should be viewed in a broader historical context. “If you remember, a few years ago, when the toll system was introduced, vignette fees were reduced to gain public acceptance for buses and trucks. So the current 30% increase is not really 30%, because it partially restores previous levels before that reduction,” she said.
She also expressed skepticism that higher revenues would translate into better infrastructure. According to her, experience over the years shows that repeated increases in road charges have not led to noticeable improvements in the condition of the national road network. She added that the planned expansion of the toll system raises additional concerns, particularly since only third-class roads remain outside the paid system.
