Podcast in English
Text size
Bulgarian National Radio © 2026 All Rights Reserved

OECD: Second wave of Covid-19 will shrink the Bulgarian economy by over 8%

Photo: capital.bg

The Bulgarian economy grew before the pandemic, but in 2020 it is facing its most serious contraction since the late 1990s. In the most favourable scenario with the epidemic subsiding by the summer, its production will shrink by 7.1% in 2020, and in 2021 the economy will grow. 
However, if the country is hit by a second wave of coronavirus, it will shrink its economy by about 8% this year and by another 0.3% in 2021. This is indicated by the forecast of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development for Bulgaria (according to the European Commission by 7.2% and according to the government by 3%). 
According to the analysis, a restart of the economy may require more political support. Unemployment could rise, especially if the government's wage subsidy scheme ends in July without being replaced by new employment policies.



Последвайте ни и в Google News Showcase, за да научите най-важното от деня!
Listen to the daily news from Bulgaria presented in "Bulgaria Today" podcast, available in Spotify.

More from category

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov supports the peace plan for Ukraine

“Borders cannot be changed by force, and Ukraine’s long-term security must be guaranteed”, Bulgaria’s Premier Rossen Zhelyazkov said during a videoconference meeting of the “Coalition of the Willing”, led by French President Emmanuel Macron and UK..

published on 11/26/25 8:57 AM

Bulgaria and China discuss cooperation in the automotive sector

Business forum on the topic "Bulgaria - China: cooperation in the automotive sector" is being held on November 26 in Sofia. Its organizers are the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Embassy of the People's Republic of..

published on 11/26/25 7:30 AM

Draft budget 2026 sparks protests

The Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association has called for participation in a protest on November 26 against the budget for 2026, which is about to be adopted at second reading. "We call not only our members, but also all..

published on 11/26/25 6:50 AM