Since 2007, when Bulgaria joined the EU, real incomes in the country have more than tripled. Purchasing power has increased by 20%. This is according to the Ministry of Finance.

In 2006, the interest rate on mortgage loans in the country was 8%, now it is 2.8%. In 17 years, Bulgaria has contributed €9.056 billion to the Community and received €30.383 billion from the EU in agricultural subsidies and operational programmes. At the end of 2006, the average wage was BGN 499 or EUR 250. In March 2024 it will be BGN 2,300 or more than EUR 1,150, with an inflation rate of 92% for the whole period.

Yordanka Chobanova, Head of the European Commission Representation in Bulgaria, told a forum at Sofia University that EU financial instruments had helped to develop the potential of businesses, increase employment and support the development of regions.