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BCCI hosted the Eighth meeting of the Club of the Joint and Foreign Chambers. The meeting was chaired by BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov who said that BCCI saw off as a whole one successful year. A new free of charge service rendered by BCCI launched ten days ago was presented by Ms. Beata Papazova, BCCI European Integration and Projects Advisor. The service is implemented under the Project "Increasing public intolerance towards grey economy as to labor and social security...
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Business news
December
Mr. Dimitar Mihaylov, Nominee for Ambassador of Bulgaria to the State of Israel visited BCCI and met with its President Tsvetan Simeonov. Ambassador Mihaylov got acquainted with the activity of BCCI. The President of the Chamber expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to optimize the work of the administration. As far as the State of Israel is concerned, two joint chambers – the Bulgarian – Israel Chamber of Commerce and Industry in...
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With a small Christmas celebration the children from Children’s Home “St. Ivan Rilski” in Sofia greeted their guests from the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The team of the Children’s Home takes care of children deprived of parental care, between 3 and 7 years of age. On the occasion of the Christmas holidays the children from the Home received a donation from the management of BCCI on the basis of their needs. In addition to the gifts...
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The partners of the „Sagittarius“ project met today. Representatives of 7 South-Eastern European countries took part in the meeting: Bulgaria, Greece, Italy, Romania, Slovenia, Hungary and Croatia. The main objective of “Sagittarius” project is to promote tourism development through the use of cultural heritage by improving the way of presentation of cultural and historical sites and to promote investments in undeveloped cultural and historical sites. The most...
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BCCI took part in the discussion of the Draft-bill on EU Funds Management. The Minister of EU Funds Management Tomislav Donchev presented the goals of the bill, its scope, structure and the contents of the specific sections. The bill comes in response to the growing need to establish a unified and flexible approach to the management of programmed funded by the EU. The concept provides a general framework for efficient coordination of the process and cooperation of all participants in...
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This week a business delegation organized by BCCI and its partners visited Japan. The central event during the visit was the forum “Invest in Bulgaria”, which took place on 14 December in Tokyo. The forum was officially opened by the Bulgarian Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism Delyan Dobrev. He presented the advantages of investing in Bulgaria, namely its strategic geographic location, economic stability, low labour costs. Minister Dobrev pointed out that our...
Full textIOE SAYS STRUCTURAL REFORMS NEED TO CONTINUE TO ENCOURAGE BUSINESS CONFIDENCE TO CREATE JOBS
- 13-12-2012
The IOE joined more than 900 representatives of business, government and labour at an international Decent Work Conference in Moscow on 11 and 12 December. Hosted by the Russian Federation with the support of the ILO, the conference discussed the development of national and global labour markets in the current global economic climate, and the IOE called on all actors to seize the opportunity to address the underlying issues exposed by the persisting global...
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In Sofia, the GS1 in Europe Regional Board Meeting was held. The CEOs of the 28 national GS1 organisations in Europe took part in the meeting. For the first time the event was hosted by the GS1 Bulgaria Council with BCCI. Miguel Lopera, President and Chief Executive Officer of GS1 also took part in the meeting. The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and Chairman of the GS1 Bulgaria Council Tsvetan Simeonov welcomed the participants in...
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BCCI sent a business delegation to Japan to accompany the Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism Delyan Dobrev on his working visit to Tokyo (in the period 11-15 December 2012). The central event during the visit will be the forum “Invest in Bulgaria”, which will take place on 14 December in Tokyo. Some of the sectors in which we will try to attract Japanese investors are production of transport equipment, machine-building, electronics,...
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Teachers and students of the National Trade and Banking High School met today with H.E. Philippe Autie, Ambassador of the Republic of France to Bulgaria. The meeting was held on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the launching of a “Bilingual project for intensive study of French language in Bulgarian schools”. Mr. Autie got acquainted with the results achieved by the students under the project, in which the National Trade and Banking High School was a...
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BCCI met a Chinese delegation from the city of Shenzhen, Guangdong province, Southern China, one of the most successful Special Economic Zones in China. BCCI’s President Tsvetan Simeonov said that the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry did its best to be a partner cooperating with all countries and continents. Trade with China has been growing steadily and Bulgaria remains the nearest border of Asia with the EU. Shang Siping, Shenzhen Vice Mayor...
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On 3rd December 2012 BCCI Vice-President Mr. Georgi Stoev, presided at the meeting of the Study Group of the Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in Brussels dedicated to "Restructuring the marine industry, which accelerates during crisis." The presentation of the report in advance, which will be sent on the next plenary session of ESC, received high praise from the European Commission and the participants in the discussion. On 4th and 5th December...
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For the 19th time BCCI bestowed its traditional Annual awards. The categories are: - Leading Bulgarian companies in the most objective business rating in Bulgaria; - Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Branch organization; - Ambassador and foreign Commercial Counselor; - Media and journalist. Four ministers attended the event as special guests: Delyan Dobrev, Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism, Tomislav Donchev, Minister of EU funds...
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The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov participated in the second for 2012 meeting of the General Assembly of the Association of Balkan Chambers /ABC/. The event was held in Nicosia, Cyprus. According to Mr. Andreas Mavroyiannis, Deputy Minister for E.U. Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus the recovery of Europe will not be possible without the recovery of business. The cohesion of the common market is the most important...
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Mr. Yuan Kehua - Commercial Counselor of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China and BCCI’s President Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov discussed in detail the program and the overall organization of the forthcoming visit in Bulgaria of a delegation from the City of Shenzhen led by the city’s Deputy Mayor. BCCI committed itself to hosting a business forum and will invite for participation Bulgarian companies, potential investment partners from China as well...
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The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Unites Kingdom to Bulgaria H.Exc. Mr. Jonathan Allen visited BCCI, accompanied by Tim Buisseret, commercial attaché at the Embassy. Together with BCCI President they discussed some issues related to the state of bilateral relations, the prospects of development of the economic ties between Bulgaria and Great Britain and strengthening of the cooperation between BCCI and the British-Bulgarian Chamber of...
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Tsvetan Simeonov said: Welcome and show attention to each and every investor and do not give heed to various allegations that one capital or another is speculative. The Bulgarian economy and some time, in the future, the Bulgarian business as well, will be grateful for every dollar and every euro that you have attracted in our
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BCCI hosted the visit of the Spanish Confederation of Corporate Associations (CEOE) which is the only organization representing employers in Spain. During the opening of the meetings Rafael Catalá, Deputy Minister of Infrastructures, Transports and Housing expressed his willingness to share his experience in bringing together the efforts of Spain and Bulgaria to create a better future. He described Bulgaria as a reliable partner and a good place for...
Full textBCCI will support an initiative for setting up of a Council with an interest in Hong Kong
- 20-11-2012
BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov met with Ms. Vania Benovska, a representative of international consulting company for business development "Benovska" supporting international companies to organize and develop their business interests in Bulgaria. Setting up of a Business Council with BCCI by founder companies interested in the Hong Kong market and finding partners for implementation of interesting projects were given due consideration. Upon its establishment the...
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For the eighteenth consecutive year the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce, together with "Made in Bulgaria" Council and Business center Bulgaria Ltd. organized the "Made in Bulgaria" national trade exhibition. More than 170 companies - Bulgarian producers and traders in the exhibition - will welcome visitors until 2nd December 2012. Bio and eco products companies’ zone has been set up at the exhibition for the first time, initiated by BCCI. The company Meleto...
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BCCI sees the World Bank as a true partner and supports its efforts directed towards more adequate functioning of the market principles in the country. Bulgaria is an example for successful implementation of these objectives. These were the words BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov shared with representatives of the World Bank during the opening of the exhibition "Chances Choices Changes" on the occasion of 20-year partnership between Bulgaria and the World Bank Group. The...
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A meeting was held at BCCI between the newly appointed Ambassador of Georgia H.Exc. Mr. Levan Metreveli and the President of the Chamber Tsvetan Simeonov. Ideas for future cooperation between the Embassy and the Chamber were given due consideration. Ambassador Metreveli informed about the latest achievements of the Georgian government to reduce bureaucracy in the country, resulting thereof in much easier business doing in the country than in previous years. It was agreed...
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BCCI was the host of a Bulgarian-Uzbek business forum on 15th November 2012. The event was within the framework of the 3rd session of the Intergovernmental Bulgarian-Uzbek committee for trade-economic and scientific and technical cooperation held in Sofia. The Minister of Regional Development and Public Works of Bulgaria Lilyana Pavlova and the Minister of Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade of Uzbekistan Elyor Ganiev are co-chairs of the committee. According...
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There has been a forum on business within the framework of the 20th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Bulgaria. Bikey Matlung, Advisor at the Embassy of South Africa in Bulgaria opened the forum. The main presentation was made by the South African Ambassador to the Russian Federation - Mandisi Mpahlua (former South African Minister of Trade and Industry, 2004 to 2009 then, until his appointment as an Ambassador, a Special...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry will participate for the second time in the Annual charity bazaar organized by the International Women's Club in Sofia. The event will be held on 2nd December 2012 between 11:00 and 17:00h. at the Inter Expo and Congress Center (147, "Tsarigradsko Shosse" Blvd). Traditionally the bazaar features food and drinks from around the world, which are typical for the participating countries. Almost all foreign diplomatic...
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The President of the Philippine company “Integrated Micro Electronics” (IME) Arthur Tan met BCCI’s President Tsvetan Simeonov. The meeting was attended by Jiles Bernard, Executive director of the European branch of the IME, Rene Ledesma - Honorary Consul of Bulgaria in the Philippines, Aleta Ledesma - Honorary Consul of Monaco in the Philippines and Ognyan Trayanov - Honorary Consul of the Philippines in Bulgaria. Mr. Tan informеd about the activities of...
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On 7th November 2012 BCCI held a meeting with a representative of the Chinese company Beijing Dattle Supply Co. Ltd., seeking Bulgarian dairy equipment. The visit was organized jointly with the Office of Trade and Economic Affairs with the Embassy of Bulgaria in Beijing. BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov elaborated on the Chamber's activity in support of Bulgarian and foreign companies and the conditions for doing business in Bulgaria. Li Wei, CEO of Beijing...
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BCCI hosted a Bulgarian-Jordanian business forum. The event is organized jointly with the Jordanian Business Development Corporation /JEDCO / and the Bulgarian- Jordanian Chamber of Economic Cooperation and is a part of the mission of JEDCO to get acquainted with the food sector in Bulgaria and Romania. The forum was opened by Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov, BCCI President. He welcomed the guests, thanked for their interest and said that Jordanian traders had big ambitions for...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met today with Mrs. Emilia Ivanova, Principal of the National Trade and Banking High School on the occasion of the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the High School. The Vice-Principal of the High School, Mr. Neycho Popov also took part at the meeting. BCCI will provide assistance to the National High School in Finance and Business and the National Trade and Banking High School – two schools, which are part of the...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov had a meeting with the Mr. Anish Gandhi, President of “Primemedia Group” – India. Mr. Ghandi said that the company represented by him has interests in the field of tourism, education and IT. “Primemedia Group” is a leader in the field of education and owns and operates the first private university in India. Around 5000 students receive degrees in engineering in the field of petroleum products at the University. The...
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The U.S. Embassy in Sofia organized a reception last night on the occasion of the U.S. Presidential Elections 2012. Politicians, bankers, diplomats, public officials, representatives of the media and NGOs attended the event. The guests had the opportunity to vote in a mock U.S. presidential election. The results of the mock election – 75 % votes for Barack Obama to 20 % for Mitt Romney foretold the victory of Barack Obama announced later. The President of BCCI...
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The visit was organized by the Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation /JEDCO/ in cooperation with BCCI and the Bulgarian – Jordan Chamber for Economic Cooperation. It is part of the tour of the Jordan businessmen in Romania and Bulgaria aiming to introduce them to the local food industry. Today, the Jordan business delegation is expected to visit stores and markets in Sofia. Some of the largest hypermarkets and store chains will meet the foreign guests and...
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BCCI took the initiative and together with other interested organizations and companies from the retail sector organized the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the establishment of the oldest known Sofia Branch Association of Tradesmen and Grocers “Three Saints”, which gave a start to the association of the tradesmen’s guild in Bulgaria. On the occasion of the celebration a special jubilee book was prepared in order to remind the important role...
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The Professional Association of Mediators in Bulgaria (PAMB) in cooperation with Integrierte Mediation Germany and the European Association of Judges for Mediation (GEMME) organized an international conference on cross-border mediation on 1st and 2nd November in Sofia. The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry as a pioneer in the field of mediation in our country and institution with long-standing tradition in the field of applying alternative methods for...
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At the request of the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), at BCCI a meeting was held of the nationally recognized employers’ organizations dedicated the issues and policies in the Draft Budget 2013. The Deputy Chair of BSP Evgheni Uzunov, MP and Former Minister of Finance Plamen Oresharski and Yordan Stoykov – member of the Executive Council of the Party were guests at the meeting. “The Draft Budget 2013 is relatively well-balanced, but there is a risk not to meet the...
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The Chairman of the British – Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce Bill Drysdale visited BCCI and met with its President Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov. During the meeting the activity of BCCI in the field of arbitration was discussed, as well as future cooperation and joint projects of the two chambers. Mr. Drysdale said that he expected significant growth of British investments in Bulgaria in the various sectors of economy. The President of BCCI invited his guest to take part...
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The Ambassador of Bangladesh accredited to Bulgaria H.E. Zulfiqur Rahman and The Counsellor at the Embassy of Bangladesh in Ankara Shah Asif Rahman met with the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. Ambassdor Rahman got acquainted with the history and activity of BCCI in details. He expressed hope that the good trade and economic relations between Bulgaria and Bangladesh from the 1970s and 80s would be restored. After the independence of Bangladesh was announced in...
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The Executive Director of Invest Bulgaria Agency Borislav Stefanov met with the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov to synchronize the efforts of the two institutions in order to better present Bulgaria and the investment opportunities in our country. The focus was placed on providing information about successfully completed institutional projects as well as on searching investors or investments for beneficial projects in Bulgaria. It was established that information about...
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The newly-appointed accredited Ambassador of Nigeria to Romania who is also responsible for Bulgaria H.E. Mr. Abba Abdullahi Tijjani was introduced at BCCI during a meeting with the Chamber’s President Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov. Two Counsellors at the Embassy of Nigeria – Mr. Gideon Yohanna and Mr. D.H. Bello also took part in the meeting. In the course of discussion, Ambassador Tijjani presented his ambitious plans for the future development of economic relations...
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At the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry a meeting was held between the President of the Chamber Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov and Mr. Baftjar Zeqaj, Mayor of Municipality Fier, Albania. Mr. Florjan Mucaj, Vice-Mayor Economic Affairs, as well as two businessmen from Albania – Mr. Dimiter Ikonomi and Mr. Vlash Ristani also took part in the meeting. BCCI has organized additional meetings in Bulgaria for the Albanian delegation. Mr. Simeonov acquainted his guests with...
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On 21 October, a round table discussion was held dedicated to the problems of the renewable energy sector. Public institutions from the energy sector, renewable energy manufacturers, electricity supply companies, financial institutions and employers’ organizations took part in the debates. The organizers’ ambition, one of which is BCCI, is to provide a platform for constructive dialogue to all stakeholders and through an open discussion to come up with balanced decisions...
Full textBCCI and National Palace of Culture discussed opportunities for joint cultural-information projects
- 01-11-2012
The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and Ivaylo Georgiev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Palace of Culture discussed at a meeting the possibility to organize joint projects. Mr. Georgiev presented new cultural and information ideas and projects, the congress activity and exhibition programme of the National Palace of Culture from recent years. The event “Golden wheel” is one of the most attractive upcoming events. It will take place on 21...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with Ms. Valeria Zhekova, President of the Bulgarian Association of Apparel and Textile Producers and Exporters and Mr. Konstantin Popov, Manager of company “Martex 2” Ltd. - member of the Branch Organization for Textiles and Clothing in Kyustendil. The current status of the apparel and textile sector in Bulgaria was discussed together with opportunities for cooperation, trainings for the members of...
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On 29 October, H.E. Jose Luis Tapia Vicente, Ambassador of Spain to Bulgaria and Eva Povedano Moreno, Commercial and Economic Counsellor at the Spanish Embassy in Sofia visited BCCI and met with the President Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov. During the meeting the state of bilateral economic relations was discussed as well as initiatives appropriate for cooperation. BCCI was notified of the upcoming visit to Sofia in the period 20 – 22 November 2012 of a...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with the General Manager of Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan Athanasios Pantazis. Expansion of the excellent cooperation between the parties was discussed. The Chamber organizes numerous international business meetings, forums and conferences, for some of which Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan may provide special facilities and preferential conditions for corporate clients. The possibility to organize joint...
Full textBCCI awarded the Commercial Counsellor of the Embassy of China Mr. Lu Yongming with Honorary Diploma
- 26-10-2012
The Commercial Counsellor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of Bulgaria left our country for good. On 25 October 2012 the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with Mr. Lu and thanked him for the excellent cooperation between the Chamber and the Embassy’s Commercial Office. Mr. Lu completed his third term of office in the Embassy of China in Sofia which lasted eight and a half years. The Commercial Counsellor was twice...
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Today, the one-week training of Mrs. Tatyana Shteriova, representative of the Arbitration Court at the Economic Chamber of Macedonia, at the Arbitration Court at BCCI was completed. The training was part of the programme of the CEFTA-DIHK partnership project “Application of CEFTA for internationalization of SEE economy”. The training aimed at sharing experience with the Arbitration Court at BCCI and was focused on the following topics: structure of the...
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Today, the Vice-President of BCCI Mr. Georgi Stoev met with representatives of the Embassy of Japan to Sofia. The meeting was organized on the occasion of the upcoming departure of Mr. Mitsushige Mori, Third Secretary – Economic Issues at the Embassy of Japan from our country. After three years of active cooperation in the field of bilateral economic relations between Japan and Bulgaria, Mr. Mori will now occupy a similar position in Latvia. Mr. Mori was awarded with...
Full textAt BCCI the second successful presentation of the business opportunities in India was held
- 26-10-2012
On 25 October, at BCCI a business seminar was held on theme “India – perspectives in the sectors energy, transport, machine-building and food industry”. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov, H.E. Divyabh Manchanda, Ambassador of India to Bulgaria and Delyan Dobrev, Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism took part in the forum together with representatives of the Association of Companies for Food Processing Machine Building in Bulgaria (HRANTEHMASH) and Bulgarian...
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The visit of the Bulgarian business delegation accompanying the Prime Minister of Bulgaria Boyko Borisov to Albania, which was organized by the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, ended successfully. During the last day of their trip, the business delegation visited the second largest city in Albania – Durres, where the country’s largest port is situated. The Bulgarian businessmen met with the General Director of Durres Port Authority...
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On 23 October in Lisbon, Portugal the 22nd Global GS1 Healthcare Conference began. The theme of this year’s conference is “A globally harmonized way to improve patient safety”. The accentuation of this year’s conference was placed upon the implementation and application of GS1 standards in hospitals and unique identification of pharmaceutical products. In July 2012, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released the Unique Device...
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Sofia University today hosts the scientific-practical conference “Bulgarian labour and social security law – myths and reality” dedicated to the 10th anniversary of Department “Labour and Social Security Law”, under the patronage and with the participation of the Minister of Labour and Social Policy Totyo Mladenov. The Secretary General of BCCI, Vasil Todorov greeted the participants and guests on behalf of BCCI which is the...
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Representatives of the largest construction and investment consortium SCG from Shanghai, China visited BCCI and met with the President Tsvetan Simeonov. At the meeting, the company declared its great interest to invest in Bulgaria. The President of BCCI provided detailed information about the country’s economy and business climate. The favourable conditions for doing business brought the Chinese company to Bulgaria. The Consortium demonstrated some its...
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In the presence of the Prime Ministers of Bulgaria and Albania, the Bulgarian – Albanian Business Forum which is part of the official visit of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Bulgaria Boyko Borisov to Albania was opened yesterday, 22 October 2012. The Chairman of the Union of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Albania Mr. Ilir Zhilla opened the forum and presented Albania as a good business and investment destination due to its low taxes and favourable...
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During the 112th Regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry (EUROCHAMBRES) in Brussels BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov spoke with Mr. Rifat Hisarciklioglu, President of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) and Mr. Constantin Mihalos, President of the Union of Greek Chambers of Commerce. The three Presidents discussed the coordination of the business participation at the...
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A Bulgarian business delegation accompanying the Prime Minister of Bulgaria Mr. Boyko Borisov during his official visit to the Republic of Albania left for the capital Tirana. Mr. Vasil Todorov, BCCI’s Secretary General is head of the business delegation organized by the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Bilateral meetings between Bulgarian and Albanian businessmen, organized jointly with the Bulgarian Albanian Chamber of Commerce have been...
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112th regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry (EUROCHAMBRES) was held in Brussels. Tsvetan Simeonov, BCCI President attended the meeting. A progress report during the Cyprus EU Presidency and the priorities of the forthcoming Irish Presidency were presented at the meeting. In the first half of 2013 Ireland, at the head of the EU will insist on searching for stabilization and crisis response as well as...
Full textBCCI participated in the International Conference on Railway Infrastructure and Facilities
- 19-10-2012
At the international conference on the railway infrastructure and facilities organized by the Bulgarian Association for Geotechnical and Tunnel Construction (BAGTC) Bulgarian railway experts met with business and academic representatives from across Europe. Lachezar Iskrov, member of the Executive Council and the Management Board of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and President of the Council of Branch Organizations with BCCI participated in the...
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The President of BCCI and President of the GS1 Bulgaria Council with BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov announced that during the second plenary day of the GS1 in Europe Regional Forum the emphasis was placed on e-Government and e-Invoicing. At today’s session good practices from the application of GS1 standards in the public sectors of Romania, Denmark and Austria were shared. Since 2005 the public sector in Denmark has been issuing electronic invoices. In this regard,...
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BCCI took part in the opening conference under project “Policy on the fees in compliance with the social relations – condition for better governance” implemented as part of Administrative Capacity Operational Programme. The main goal of the project is to achieve better governance through introduction of a new policy on the fees, based on clear principles and rules. As a result of the project a new concept on the fees is expected to be developed,...
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The visit of the Bulgarian business delegation accompanying the Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism Delyan Dobrev to India ended successfully. The occasion for the visit was the 17th session of the Bulgarian – Indian Intergovernmental Joint Committee on Economic and Scientific and Technical Cooperation, which was held in New Delhi on 15 – 16 October 2012. Upon his return from India, Minister Dobrev said that the Indian company Sutherland Global Services is...
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Today, the first plenary sessions during the GS1 in Europe Regional Forum were held with the participation of representatives of the GS1 Bulgaria Council with BCCI*. The morning session was dedicated to the global and regional updates concerning the GS1 activity and strategy. During the session acting and pilot projects were presented with emphasis on: • Strategies of GS1 in Europe • BarCode Conformance – GS1 Spain • Logger for Staff / Quality of...
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This morning a meeting with local businessmen in the regional PHD Chamber in New Delhi was held. The organization was founded in 1905 and serves companies from 11 regions in India. PHD Chamber has a direct membership of over 1,600 corporate entities and serves more than 45,000 indirect members through 150 Association Members and 8 Secretarial Affiliates. The meeting at PHD Chamber was opened by the Chairman of the International Affairs Committee for Europe Mr. Vijay...
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As part of his visit to India, the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with Mr. Deep Kapuria, Chairman of the Regional Committee on Central Europe and Chairman of the Hi-Tech Group at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). Mr. Kapuria informed that the automotive industry has become a very powerful sector in India. In 2011, 3 million automobiles were manufactured in the country. In the next few years the annual output is expected to reach 5...
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Nine years ago GS1 discussed mainly how to implement the basic and core elements of the system. At this year’s Regional Forum in Bucharest (16 – 19 October 2012), the discussion will focus more on innovation and future opportunities. Globalization trend and technology development expand the possibilities for GS1 system and open new areas to explore. Guided by the principle that each innovation requires good foundations to start with, GS1 chose the motto of the forum in Bucharest...
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On 12 October 2012 a round table discussion was held in Vidin founding a Discussion club with BCCI to discuss measures for curbing the informal sector in labour and social security relations. The event was organized as part of the project “Increasing public intolerance to informal economy in labour and social security relations and preventive actions for its restriction” implemented with the financial support of Human Resources Development Operational Programme and co-funded by...
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A Bulgarian – Indian business forum was held on 15 October 2012 in Delhi. The event was attended by Bulgarian companies accompanying the Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism Delyan Dobrev on his visit to India. The business mission is taking place on the occasion of the 17th session of the Bulgarian – Indian Intergovernmental Joint Committee on Economic and Scientific and Technical Cooperation (15 – 16 October 2012). The event was organized by...
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At the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a meeting was held between Martin Krastanov, Sales Manager of Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena and the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. During the meeting opportunities and perspectives for organizing joint events – seminars, forums and conferences were discussed. Martin Krastanov presented the conditions and services provided by Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena in Bansko. For the second consecutive year the Hotel was selected...
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On the occasion of the upcoming 100th anniversary of the National High School in Finance and Business in 2013, the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and the Director of the National High School, which was founded on the initiative and with the financial support of Sofia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, discussed ideas for the official celebration of the jubilee. BCCI experts will provide methodological assistance to the students from the High School for the development of projects....
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On the occasion of the 17th session of the Bulgarian – Indian Intergovernmental Joint Committee on Economic and Scientific and Technical Cooperation, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) organized a visit of a Bulgarian business delegation to Delhi, India in the period 13 – 17 October 2012. The delegation headed by the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov is accompanying the Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism Delyan Dobrev. In addition to the official...
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The President of BCCI, Tsvetan Simeonov met with Valentin Angelov – Sales Director of ESAB Bulgaria to discuss the future cooperation of the two organizations. Mr. Ivan Stoimenov, Member of the Executive Council and the Board of Directors of BCCI and Manager of the Bulgarian-Nordic Chamber of Commerce also took part in the meeting. ESAB Bulgaria is a direct member of the BCCI. This was the second of the planned series of meetings with companies where BCCI has local...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with H.E. Guillermo Azrak, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Argentina to Bulgaria. During the meeting, two major topics were discussed: the economic ties between the two countries and possible approaches to promoting bilateral cooperation between companies. According to Mr. Simeonov, trade volume between Bulgaria and Argentina is unsatisfactory. As a whole trade is unevenly distributed – even though measured in...
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Mr. Alifierakis Manolis, President of Heraklion Chamber of Commerce and Industry and entrepreneurs from the region of Crete visited BCCI. The two chambers participate in several joint projects – GREEN, WE – EEN and PROCEED. In addition to the implementation of these projects, at a meeting with the President of BCCI, initiatives for development of the relations between the two chambers were discussed in order to promote and expand the contacts between entrepreneurs from...
Full textBCCI presented its position on the State Budget 2013 at an extraordinary meeting of the NCTC
- 11-10-2012
On 10 October 2012, an extraordinary meeting of the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation (NCTC) was held. The NCTC resumed its work with new members. During the first meeting important issues related to the adoption of the State Budget for 2013 were discussed. On the basis of the consultations held with BCCI’s members and experts and in compliance with the decisions of the General Assembly and the guidelines for the activity adopted by it, the following position was...
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The first meeting of the Advisory Council assisting the Council of Ministers in formulating the state policy for disaster protection was held with the participation of the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. The Hiogo Framework for Action in the period 2011 – 2013 was presented alongside the functions of the national platform. Various ideas and suggestions for activities to be included in the annual work programme of the Council were considered. The main proposal was to...
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H.E. Makoto Ito, Ambassador of Japan to Bulgaria was awarded with Honorary Diploma by the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov on the occasion of the end of his two-year term of office. The President of BCCI thanked Ambassador Ito for the successful collaboration. On his part, H.E. Makoto Ito said that he expected bilateral cooperation in the private sector to expand in the future and that the Embassy of Japan undertook to provide the necessary assistance for its promotion and for...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and the President of Bulgarian Economic Forum George Tabakov held a working meeting to discuss the upcoming Southeast Europe Business Forum, which will take place in Istanbul on 22 – 23 November 2012. Mr. Tabakov said that more than 30 Bulgarian companies will take part in the forum. More that 300 businessmen and officials from all Southeast European countries are expected to attend the forum – Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina,...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov launched for the second consecutive year the AUTO CLUB SHOW, which took place in the period 5th – 7th October 2012 in Hristo Botev Hall in Sofia. This year’s participants in the exhibition exceeded those of last year. The exhibition was even more attractive because unique automobiles were presented. Most of the auto clubs participated in the event for the second time. Some of the cars were displayed in Bulgaria for the first time....
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H.E. Divyabh Manchanda, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India to Bulgaria visited BCCI and met with its President Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov. The meeting was dedicated to the upcoming visit of Bulgarian business delegation to India in the period 13 – 17 October 2012, accompanying Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism Delyan Dobrev. Minister Dobrev will visit the country on the occasion of the 17th session of the Bulgarian – Indian Intergovernmental Joint...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry took part in the seminar “Danube cluster of knowledge – an instrument of cooperation and solidarity in the Danube region”. The initiative deserves support because on the one hand the Danube region provides excellent basis to expand cooperation and, on the other hand, because it focuses on the innovative approach. Even though cooperation cannot be accomplished as part of the Lisbon Strategy, the Chamber expects that it...
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As was agreed during the last meeting of the Consultative Council to the “Pact for Industrial Stability” with the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism, the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov had a meeting with Mr. Anton Petrov, President of the Bulgarian Association of the Metallurgical Industry. Mr. Lachezar Iskrov, member of the Board of Directors and the Executive Council of BCCI also took part in the meeting. Various issues were discussed related to BCCI’s...
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For the fifth consecutive year, during the regular annual audit by SGS Bulgaria of the ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System of BCCI, no significant or insignificant discrepancies were discovered in the system’s functioning. The Quality Management System covers all aspects of BCCI’s activity, organized in 10 main and 11 fundamental processes as follows: Membership in BCCI, maintenance of the Voluntary Unified Trade Register, provision of services for...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and Yancho Yanev, Co-Chairman of Haskovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry held a business meeting with Mr. Shekh Mustafa Abdulla, Chairman of the Importers and Exporters Union of Kurdistan Region, Iraq. The Director of the Association for Friendship Kurdistan – Bulgaria Mr. Majid Taha also took part in the meeting. Mr. Abdulla briefly presented the activity of the Importers and Exporters Union of Kurdistan Region, Iraq which unites...
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In order to cooperate more efficiently with the established local bodies of the BCCI, the President of the Chamber Tsvetan Simeonov visited company BRAMAC and met with its Manager Mr. Kiril Dyakov. Mr. Ivan Stoimenov, member of the Executive Council of the BCCI also took part in the meeting. The current status of Bulgarian construction industry was discussed alongside the problems with which Bulgarian and foreign investors are faced. It was ascertained that Bulgarian public...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) does not support the Draft-bill for Amendment and Supplement to the Labour Code (№ 254-01-94), put forward for discussion by Volen Siderov and a group of MPs for the following reasons: The minimum wage is not a kind of social benefit, but the financial equivalent (consideration) for work done. Therefore, the minimum wage in Bulgaria must be specified on the basis of the economic indicators in the country determining...
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The Consul-General of New Zealand in Milan and Trade Commissioner for Italy and Eastern Europe, including Bulgaria – Clare Wilson visited the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and met with President Tsvetan Simeonov. During the meeting it was noted that trade turnover between Bulgaria and New Zealand is very modest and in 2011 amounted to USD 9 million. At present, the trade balance is in favour of Bulgaria mainly due to last year’s sharp increase in the...
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The President of BCCI met with the newly-appointed Bulgarian Commercial Counselor in Switzerland, Ms. Aneta Gruycheva. Tsvetan Simeonov introduced Ms. Gruycheva to some of the latest events organized successfully by the Chamber – the business delegation to Vienna accompanying the President of the Republic of Bulgaria Rosen Plevneliev, the seminar presenting business and investment opportunities in the Bulgarian ethnic region Taraclia, Republic of Moldova, etc. Mr. Simeonov...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and the newly-appointed Ambassador of Bulgaria to Tokyo Georgi Vasilev discussed the potential for development of trade and economic relations between Bulgaria and Japan. In the past Ambassador Vasilev occupied a position in Vietnam. During the meeting it was ascertained that in general there is knowledge about the economy and business of the two countries, but that it lacks specificity. President Simeonov offered the assistance of...
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On 26 September 2012, the representative for Bulgaria of the Foreign Investment Agency of the Republic of Macedonia Ana Stoykova visited BCCI. Ms. Stoykova arrived in Bulgaria in early September and shall be in charge of the commercial and economic affairs of the Embassy of Macedonia in Sofia. She discussed with Ms. Gabriela Dimitrova, Director International Cooperation and International Organizations at BCCI measures for the development of bilateral trade between Bulgaria and...
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The nationally recognized employers’ organizations sent a letter to the Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation (NCTC) Mr. Simeon Djankov asking to resume the work of the NCTC. The national employers’ organizations have ascertained a discontinuation of the work of the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation and insist that a meeting of the NCTC is called as soon as possible in compliance with Art. 9, para 3 of the...
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On 25 September 2012 a round table discussion was held on theme: “Social, economic and ecological effects from the introduction of product fee for plastic bags”. The discussion was part of a series of events included within the information campaign “Why Bulgarian plastic bags?” of Bulgarian Association Polymers, which started in August under the slogan “Think logically, live environmentally friendly!”. The campaign was organized on the occasion of the...
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BCCI hosted a presentation on the business opportunities and investments in the Bulgarian ethnic area Taraclia, Republic of Moldova. The event was organized in conjunction with the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Moldova and was attended by representatives of the local authorities of Taraclia Mr. Alexander Garanovski - President of the Regional Council of Taraclia, Mr. Sergei Philipov – Mayor of Taraclia, H.Exc. Mr. Alexandru Prigorski - Ambassador...
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During the first day of the 120th jubilee Technical Fair in Plovdiv the new services provided by BCCI in favour of business were presented. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and the Secretary General Vasil Todorov accented on the issuance and validation of more than 25 000 foreign trade documents annually: certificates of origin; verification of the signatures of the representatives of registered legal entities placed on export invoices, declarations, contracts, production...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has the pleasure to invite the Bulgarian media to a seminar “Business and investment opportunities in the Bulgarian ethnic region Taraclia, Republic of Moldova”. The event is organized jointly with the Bulgarian Embassy in the Republic of Moldova and will take place on 25 September, 9:30 a.m. at BCCI premises, 9 Iskar Str., Sofia. The aim of the seminar is to present and report on the business and investment...
Full textBCCI presented the classification “TOP-100 companies leading in the Bulgarian economy in 2011”
- 24-09-2012
At a press conference held on 21 September 2012, the 14th consecutive edition of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry “TOP 100 – Companies leading in the economy of Bulgaria in 2011” was presented. In the process of its preparation the data from the annual financial reports of more than 5340 companies were examined, which account for around 76.94% of the country’s GDP. 70% of the companies ranked among the first ten in the various classifications are...
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For the 14th consecutive year, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has prepared classifications of the companies and holdings leading in the Bulgarian economy – those companies, which ended 2011 with very good economic results and are the backbone of Bulgarian economy. More than 5340 companies, which account for around 76.94% of the country’s GDP, were examined. The top 100 most successful companies included in the classifications were selected according...
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On 20 September 2012 a meeting of the Public Advisory Council at the State Energy and Water Regulatory Commission was held to discuss the changes in the price of natural gas for the IV quarter of 2012, when selling it by the public provider to end suppliers and consumers connected to the gas network. The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) expressed its position for more transparency in view of the reached agreements on the price of natural gas and required a detailed...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with Ms. Marieta Todorova, Director at PMI Bulgaria Chapter. For the second consecutive year PMI Bulgaria is organizing a conference to present internationally adopted project management methodologies and practices. This year the Conference will take place on 12 October 2012, Friday. Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov confirmed that a representative of the Chamber will attend the event. The conference’s organizers promise discussions,...
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At a press conference on 18 September 2012, the Association of Food Voucher Operators explained that the food voucher quota turned out insufficient and the companies which issue them insist that additional BGN 68.4 million are granted for food vouchers until the end of the year. Vouchers and exempt from taxes and social securities and therefore they are preferred bonuses to the salary by employers. Even though the ceiling is higher in comparison to last year – from 172 to...
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On 19 September 2012, the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with Dr. Svetoslav Spassov, Political Advisor of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Bulgaria and Secretary of the Interdepartmental Committee on Defense Industry and Security of Deliveries. Dr. Spassov carries out the functions of Ambassador of Bulgaria at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations, OSCE, the multilateral regimes for non-distribution and export control, and the...
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During the working visit of the President of Bulgaria Rosen Plevneliev to Austria, BCCI in cooperation with the Austrian Economic Chambers (WKO) and the Embassy of Bulgaria in Austria organized and held Bulgarian – Austrian Business Forum with the participation of Ministers Lilyana Pavlova and Ivaylo Moskovski and more than 400 Austrian and 36 Bulgarian businessmen. Bulgarian President Plevneliev said at the forum: “Our understanding is this - politicians need to...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has the pleasure to invite you to a seminar “Business and investment opportunities in the Bulgarian ethnic region Taraclia, Republic of Moldova”. The event is organized jointly with the Bulgarian Embassy in the Republic of Moldova and will take place on 25 September, 9:30 a.m. at BCCI premises, 9 Iskar Str., Sofia. Seven proposals for investment in Region Taraclia will be discussed at the seminar: investment in a hotel...
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“The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and our partners from the Austrian Economic Chambers (WKO) aim to bring businesses together and support their successful cooperation. I hope that today’s forum will show the results of our past work and will launch new joint projects and business initiatives”, said the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and leader of the Bulgarian business delegation at the opening of the Austrian – Bulgarian Economic Forum which is...
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For the 14th consecutive year, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has prepared classifications of the companies and holdings leading in the Bulgarian economy – those companies, which ended 2011 with very good economic results and are the backbone of Bulgarian economy. More than 5340 companies, which account for around 76.94% of the country’s GDP, were examined. The top 100 most successful companies included in the classifications were selected...
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The Innovation Council with BCCI held an information day about the JEREMIE initiative with the participation of managers of funds established under the JEREMIE initiative, representatives of the European Investment Fund, as well as members of the Innovation Council with BCCI, the Council of Sectorial Organizations with BCCI, scientists from the Bulgarian Academy of Science, universities, Federation of the Scientific - Engineering Unions in Bulgaria, Union of Inventors in...
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The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry met with the Commercial Counselor of the Embassy of Romania to our country Mr. Radu Calin Moldovan. Mr. Moldovan informed about the end of his term of office in Bulgaria. He reviewed the excellent cooperation with BCCI and said that the business forum which was organized in 2010 on the occasion of the visit of the President of Romania to Sofia was one of the most successful events. According to Mr. Moldovan the...
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On 12 -13 September in Istanbul, a business forum was held on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB). The forum was opened by the TOBB President Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu. Mr. Hisarcıklıoğlu described the development of the Union from a small office in Ankara in 1952 to the large business organization it is today, which due to the economic power of its members occupies one of the leading positions worldwide....
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During the second day the annual IOE European members meeting, the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov, together with the representatives of the employers’ organizations of Poland, Portugal and Greece took part in the panel ““Responses to the Crisis: Reform Processes in Member States”. The President of BCCI presented the Chamber’s position and commented on the current economic status of Bulgaria and the results from a survey of the ranking of Bulgaria in...
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At their annual meeting, which started on 13 September 2012 in Brussels, employers from across Europe and Central Asia urged governments to continue structural reforms to restore Europe as a “power-house” of the global economy. “In view of the huge economic and labour market challenges, governments must remain steadfast in their efforts to improve the business climate and competitiveness. This is the only way to unlock the full potential of Europe and Central...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov presented H.E. James Warlick with Diploma for his significant contribution to the development of the economic cooperation between Bulgaria and the USA. Together with the Diploma the Ambassador received the book “Monasteries in Bulgaria” by the Chamber. The Ambassador of the USA to Bulgaria was awarded on the occasion of the end of his term of office at a farewell reception held at the invitation of the American Chamber of...
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BCCI will participate in the meeting of the European members of the International Organization of Employers (IOE), which begins tomorrow in Brussels. The meeting is hosted by the Belgian employers – the Federation of Enterprises in Belgium, and will be attended by organizations of employers from Europe and Central Asia. The motto of the meeting is “Europe Reloaded”. Together with the representatives of employers’ organizations from Poland, Portugal...
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BCCI as a permanent partner of the Bulgarian Red Cross (BRC) supports the fundraising campaign for the victims of the earthquake in Pernik. Tsvetan Simeonov participated in a joint press conference during which the start of the new campaign was announced. According to the Bulgarian Red Cross, BGN 170 000 have been raised so far. 8 507 requests for assistance were submitted to Municipality Pernik, and almost 12 000 applications for one-time aid of BGN 325 were lodged in the Agency for...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov had a meeting with the Honorary Consul of Bulgaria for East Flanders, Belgium Willy Van Impe. Plans to further develope the Chamber’s relations with businesses from the region were discussed and some new ideas in this regard were shared. Consul Van Impe brought up the question of a possible official participation in the Gent Fair. He informed about the upcoming arrival of the new Belgian Ambassador to our country – Ms. Anick Van...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with H.E. Gholamreza Bagheri Moghaddam, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Bulgaria. Bilateral economic cooperation was discussed at the meeting which was held on 4 September 2012 per request of the Ambassador. Ambassador Moghaddam informed that the two planned visits to our country of local officials and business representatives from the East Azerbaijan and Zanjan Provinces have been postponed. Mr. Simeonov provided...
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The Honorary Consul of Bulgaria in Marseille Jean-Marie Martin visited BCCI and met with the President of the Chamber Tsvetan Simeonov. Mr. Martin shared the positive results from the fraternization of the towns Sozopol and Cassis in France, which have much in common - size, location and even history - they were Greek colonies. Implementation of cooperation between the two cities is envisaged in the fields of tourism, wine and water purification. According to the Honorary consul...
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In August this year, the total business climate indicator decreased by 3.3 percentage points compared to its July level, according to the National Statistical Institute. Commenting on the data for the Bulgarian National Radio, Aleksandar Dimitrov, Economic Analyst at BCCI said that the decrease of 3.3 percentage points is perfectly normal. “It is important to know the starting base. Every year BCCI conducts a survey of the business climate as part of EU-wide study. According to this...
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BCCI participated actively in the discussion of the Plan to reduce the administrative and regulatory burden and made proposals both during the discussion and prior to it by means of submitted position-papers, said Vasil Todorov, Secretary General of BCCI for Bulgaria on Air television. Generally, BCCI supports the Plan to reduce the administrative and regulatory burden and the measures included in it. The Government’s policy for managing regulations and quality assessment...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry presented the General Manager of Djebel-96 LTD. Eng. Kyashif Kyashif with an honorary diploma on the occasion of his 60th anniversary. The award was presented by the President of BCCI Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov for contribution to the development of Bulgarian economy through dynamic management, maintaining good profitability, contribution to increasing the level of employment in the South Central Planning Region of Bulgaria. Djebel-96...
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Today at BCCI a meeting was held between representatives of large Chinese chain stores and local businesses. The aim of the visit was to exchange information and motivation to start business cooperation between the two countries. The forum was opened by Vasil Todorov, Secretary General of BCCI. He explained that there is great interest by Chinese investors and unutilized potential for development of Bulgarian companies. Mr. Todorov emphasized the advantages of setting up a...
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Representatives of the Japan External Trade Organization JETRO visited BCCI and met with the Vice-President of the Chamber and the Bulgarian – Japanese Economic Council Mr. Georgi Stoev. Mr. Jun Washizawa, Director of JETRO Wien and Dr. Akio Takada, Correspondent for Bulgaria discussed with Mr. Stoev the development of Bulgarian energy sector and especially the state of renewable energy projects after the latest legislative changes in this area. Mr. Stoev informed the...
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Georgi Stoev, Vice-President of BCCI and the Bulgarian – Japanese Economic Council, was awarded with commendation by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan as Chairman of the Association for Overseas Technical Scholarship (AOTS) for Bulgaria. The conferment ceremony took place in the Residence of the Japanese Ambassador to Bulgaria H.E. Mr. Makoto Ito on 22 August 2012 in the presence of representatives of the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism, the Ministry of Foreign...
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Beijing University is implementing the “How to do business with China” programme, which was developed in the beginning of 2012, Prof. Lv Feng from Beijing University informed during a meeting held at BCCI with Mr. Georgi Stoev, Vice-President and Mr. Vasil Todorov, Secretary General of the Chamber. The programme aims to promote opportunities for improving communication between Bulgarian and Chinese businesses. Prof. Lv presented the programme and pointed out several...
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According to BCCI, it is possible not to increase the minimum insurance thresholds in some sectors of industry, said today Alexander Dimitrov, BCCI Analyst in an interview for the morning broadcast of Horizont Programme, Bulgarian National Radio. Where there is growth in productivity however, the insurance thresholds will be increased. The Chamber insists last year’s levels to be preserved in the sectors in which no agreement for the minimum insurance thresholds has been...
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BCCI reckons that the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation (NCTC), now in its new composition, should begin its work with the fundamental documents which are important for the entire economy and social policy of the country. First of all, the Economic Programme of GERB Party, with which it won the Parliamentary elections, as well as the implementation of the so-called Anti-crisis Measures (59 plus 1) should be reviewed. The participants in the NCTC came up with those measures with...
Full textBCCI wants to improve the promotion of Bulgarian SMEs in international business exhibitions
- 14-08-2012
How to improve the management and promote the participation of Bulgarian SMEs in international specialized exhibitions was discussed on the initiative of the Executive Agency for Promotion of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises with the participation of the national representative employers’ organizations. It is not right for a governmental body to organize the participation of Bulgarian companies in fairs, exhibitions and business delegations with taxpayers’ money....
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The price freeze of staple goods rather instills an undeserved negative attitude towards the large food store chains, but we mustn’t forget that due to them many of our products reach other markets worldwide, said the President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tsvetan Simeonov in an interview for the programme “Neshto poveche” of “Horizont” radio. According to him, the competitive environment “is the one that determines the...
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At BCCI a meeting was held with the President of the Association for Modern Trade and Managing Director of “Metro Cash & Carry Bulgaria” EOOD Emiliyan Abadzhiev. The occasion for the meeting was BCCI’s initiative to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the first trade association in Bulgaria – the association of grocers founded in 1812. This would be a great occasion to remind that trade is an engine of growth and a bridge connecting manufacturers and...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted the Seventh meeting of the Club of Joint and Foreign Chambers. The main theme of the meeting was the investment climate in Bulgaria and the upcoming amendments to the Bulgarian Investment Promotion Act in support of production and services with high added value, increasing regional economic activity and job creation. The Executive Director of Invest Bulgaria Agency Borislav Stefanov gave a presentation on the topic....
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The newly-appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Kingdom of Morocco Boryana Simeonova visited the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry before her departure. During her meeting with BCCI’s President Tsvetan Simeonov she said that Morocco is a stable country which has created excellent conditions for business. The country provides opportunities for cooperation and has well developed construction industry and low VAT. She also...
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In July this year, BCCI held a survey about the innovation activity of companies and their cooperation with the scientific and research institutes. The goal was to come up with measures that would encourage companies to invest in scientific research. The reason to hold the survey was the remaining unfavourable position of our country in international classifications in relation to “Innovation” (93rd place in the Global Competitiveness Index 2011 – 2012 among...
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The newly-appointed Commercial Counselor of Bulgaria in Sao Paulo, Brazil Mr. Kostadin Stoychev met with the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. Mr. Stoychev is expected to officially enter office at the end of this month. During the meeting, President Tsvetan Simeonov briefed his guest about the Chamber’s excellent cooperation with other international organizations and introduced him to the services it provides to businesses. The President also presented the activity and the...
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Victor Arhipov, representative of Russia in the Business Council of the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) and architect Georgi Bakalov, President of the Union of Architects of Bulgaria and President of the Union of Architects of the Black Sea Region visited BCCI. During a meeting with the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov, the guests discussed the activities of the BSEC and the need to intensify the work of the Council which this year marks its 20th...
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Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev awarded the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium H.E. Marc Michielsen with “Stara Planina” Order First Degree. The highest Bulgarian state order was bestowed on the occasion of the departure of the Ambassador from Bulgaria for good. The President of BCCI Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov was a special guest to the ceremony at the invitation of Ambassador Michielsen. H.E. Marc Michielsen has been an Ambassador of the Kingdom of...
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On the initiative of H.E. Pamela Deen, Ambassador of Sri Lanka, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry was visited by Ms. Kshenuka Senewiratne, Additional Secretary Political Affairs at the Ministry of External Affairs of Sri Lanka. The President of the Chamber presented the activities and services which BCCI provides to local and foreign companies. The guests got acquainted to the economic and investment climate in Bulgaria and the most perspective sectors for...
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During a meeting held at the BCCI, the Ambassador of Bulgaria to Moldova Mr. Georgi Panayotov and the President of the Chamber Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov discussed events that will take place in Moldova in order to present the investment and business opportunities provided by our country. Some of the most favourable sectors for cooperation were outlined during the meeting, such as production of bio diesel, alcoholic beverages, wine production, import of water, etc. ...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted the meeting of the Club of the Bulgarian – Japanese Economic Council with BCCI. The meeting was moderated by Georgi Stoev, Vice-President of the Bulgarian – Japanese Economic Council and the BCCI. Members of the Board of Directors of the Bulgarian – Japanese Economic Council took part in the meeting – Deputy Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism Ivo Marinov, H.E. Makoto Ito, Ambassador of Japan to Bulgaria...
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“Commercial, political and cultural contacts are up to standard, which can hardly be influenced by the terrorist act in Bourgas”, said Jackie Arueti*, Secretary General of the Israeli-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce in Tel Aviv – a partner of BCCI, in an interview for "Aliya" - an Israeli newspaper in Bulgarian in Tel Aviv. According to him Israeli businessmen are increasingly investing in Bulgaria, attracted by the favourable economic climate and the sympathy...
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It is our great pleasure to inform that by a resolution of the Council of Ministers dated 25th July 2012 BCCI was recognized as a representative organization of employers nationally. We use this opportunity to thank all who supported and helped the largest non-governmental business organization in Bulgaria to receive this recognition. We hope that those who, from ignorance or irrelevant obstinacy, wanted the Chamber to be excluded from the tripartite dialogue will...
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Within the framework of the annual meetings of our overseas commercial councilors with the Bulgarian business community, Galina Laleva, head of the Economic and Commercial Service Office /ECSO/ based in Berlin, visited BCCI and had a discussion with the Chamber’s President. A wide range of issues related to bilateral trade, investments and tourism in the context of the economic situation in the EU were given due attention. A reference was made with regard to the very strong...
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For the second consecutive year the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism awarded the most successful Economic and Commercial Service Offices (ECSO). The ECSO Romania was awarded first place and presented with a Hermes bronze statuette and a diploma by the Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism Deliyan Dobrev. Ivan Kitov /Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs / awarded 2nd place to ECSO China congratulating...
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The halls of the Council of Ministers hosted a public consultation entitled "Allocation of funding of the National Programme for Development - Bulgaria 2020 by priorities" (NPD-B2020). BCCI took part in the discussion. NPD-B2020 goals and priorities were given due attention besides the indicative allocation of national and European funds by the presented priorities. More than BGN106 billion in national, European funding and other financing /PPP/ was reported to be necessary...
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Mr. Thomas Bichan, Deputy Ambassador of the Slovak Republic in Bulgaria visited BCCI to meet BCCI President Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov. The occasion was the invitation to Bulgaria as a partner country in the Sixth Business Forum of the Slovak Agency for Development of Investments and Trade (SARIO). The event is scheduled for late October or early November 2012 and is intended for specialized business organizations, mainly in energy, mechanical engineering, automotive, electrical engineering,...
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A governmental agency should not provide services to businesses because it is unfair competition to companies and NGOs that have no public funding. The proposal in the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Act (SMEA) that the Executive Agency for Promotion of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (ASME) should be entitled to render business services is unacceptable – reads BCCI position, signed by BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov on the occasion of the impending changes affecting small...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in cooperation with 10 other members of Enterprise Europe Network – technological and research institutes and chambers of commerce and industry, is implementing project Wizard of the Environment: Enterprise Europe Network (WE-EEN). Strategic objectives of the WE-EEN project: • to reduce the impact on the environment of SMEs in Europe • to help European SMEs turn environmental challenges into economic...
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On 16 July in Sofia, Grand Hotel Sofia, a three-day Conference on Trade, Customs and Transport Facilitation - Electronic Business and Port Community System will begin. As one of the organizers of the event, BCCI will present the use of the GS1 standards in electronic commerce, with an emphasis on the GS1 eCom standards, which are compatible with UN/EDIFACT. GS1 eCom are global standards for electronic business messaging (EDI) and provide clear instructions for creating...
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In welcoming yesterday’s European Parliament Industry, Research and Energy Committee vote on the Energy Efficiency Directive, the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry EUROCHAMBRES stressed that this is just the first step in a lengthy and challenging process and called on member states to ensure that they implement the legislation with SMEs in mind. BCCI subscribes to this opinion with its numerous position-papers on energy efficiency and competitiveness...
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Treatment of patients with cancer requires special precautionary measures to be taken when handling the respective medications. Special attention in hospital logistics is paid to the preparation, transport, storage, or disposal of cytostatics. Uniform GS1 standards, which have been successfully implemented in many sectors such as the food industry for many years, have recently been adopted by the Vienna General Hospital (AKH) as an aid in handling cytostatics. In order to cut...
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In Brussels the preliminary elections for President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) were held. By a majority of 65 votes to 35 and 2 abstentions Mr. Henry Malosse, representative of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry was nominated. Mr. Malosse was the former President of the Employers’ Group of the EESC and beat the representative of BUSINESSEUROPE Mr. Philippe de Buck. The former Vice-President of the EESC Mr. Jacek Krawczyk from...
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Interviewer, Bulgarian National Radio Good afternoon to Mrs. Mariana Kukusheva, President of the Federation of Bakers and Confectioners in Bulgaria and Vice-President of the Council of Sectorial Organizations with BCCI. After the soaring price of electricity, there has been an increase in the price of wheat – how will all this affect the price of bread? Mariana Kukusheva: The price of bread, as well as the price of wheat, is a matter of market. Wheat pricing depends on its...
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At the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry the constituent assembly of the Bulgarian – Ukrainian Chamber of Industry with BCCI was held. The meeting was initiated by the Embassy of Ukraine in Sofia and was attended by representatives of the business. At the opening of the meeting, the Vice-President of BCCI Mr. Georgi Stoev said that this was a joint initiative of the business and the Embassy. 14 companies from various sectors of industry took part in the constituent...
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Interview of Tsvetan Simeonov, President of BCCI for the Bulgarian National Radio, 5th July 2012, 5:15 p.m. Interviewer Diana Yankulova Speaking of the Constitutional Court, which systematically corrects the mistakes of policy-makers with at least one similar decision a week, we will now give the floor to the President of BCCI. A while ago we discussed with great relief with Mr. Simeonov that the texts of the Labour Code, which were returned by the Constitutional Court, and the...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and Chamber experts took part in the meeting held in the Council of Ministers to present the results of the analysis and assessment of the procedures for provision of financial aid under the seven operational programmes, and of the criteria used in the selection of project proposals. The system of seven operational programmes and accompanying procedures, co-financed by the Structural Funds and the Cohesion Fund of the European...
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A meeting between the newly-appointed Ambassador of Bulgaria to Cuba Ms. Svetla Stefanova and the President of BCCI Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov was held. During the talks, Mr. Simeonov informed Ms. Stefanova of previous experience in the business relations with Cuba and the status of BCCI’s partner organizations in Cuba. Opportunities for economic cooperation between the two countries were discussed. It was ascertained that there still isn’t enough information about the...
Full textBCCI actively supports the “France – South-Eastern Europe” business forum initiative of UBIFRANCE
- 06-07-2012
On 5th and 6th July in Sofia a two-day business forum “France – South Eastern Europe” organized by the Economic Mission of the French Embassy to Bulgaria UBIFRANCE is taking place. Among the official guests are Delyan Dobrev, Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism, H.E. Philippe Autie, Ambassador of France to Bulgaria, Christophe Lecourtier, Chief Executive Office of UBIFRANCE, Athanasios Petropoulos, CEO of Emporiki Bank Bulgaria. BCCI...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov opened the traditional meeting of the EU Club at BCCI on the occasion of the assumption of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union by the Republic of Cyprus. He reminded that the period of economic hardships will be a useful check for the European Union, allowing it to review its entire framework of development. “We hope that good, important decisions will be taken for the EU to become less bureaucratic and much more attractive...
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At BCCI a meeting was held between Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov, President of the Chamber and Mr. Eliran Sharon, Senior Vice-President of the Israeli Holding “888”. Mr. Shlomi Waizel, CEO and Mrs. Kichka Dimitrova, Assistant of the Israeli company “VOLARO” also took part in the meeting. Mr. Sharon presented the activity of the Holding, which is one of the largest in the world in the field of on-line gambling. In his turn Mr. Simeonov introduced...
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Representatives of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce, San Francisco visited BCCI. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with Konstantina Chilingirova, President of the joint organization and Vance Petrunoff, member of the Board of Directors. The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce in San Francisco was established by the Bulgarian community in North Carolina in the fall of 2011. Mr. Simeonov informed his guests about the activity of BCCI and the Bulgarian – American...
Full textDelegation of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries visited BCCI
- 03-07-2012
A delegation of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries visited BCCI. China is becoming more attractive and desirable partner for us, the President of BCCI Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov said in his opening speech to the meeting. The Chinese delegation is in Bulgaria at the invitation of the Slavyani Foundation. Mr. Simeonov explained that each review made of BCCI’s relations with China in recent years has been very comprehensive, because they...
Full textAt BCCI the Annual Information Meeting with Interns from High Schools of Economics Was Held
- 03-07-2012
At BCCI the regular annual information meeting between “Economic Analyses and Policies” Directorate and interns from economic high schools was held. Students from 10th and 11th grade - members of the “Entrepreneur” Club of the National High School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences “Academician G. Chakalov” took part in the meeting alongside the traditional partners from the National Trade and Banking High School and the National High...
Full textJune
“Green economy” is a means of overcoming economic uncertainty and ensuring sustainable growth, and forums such as “Greenest Companies of 2011” are a means to successfully counteract to the economic crisis”, the President of BCCI said in his opening speech to Green Day Forum organized by b2b Media. Mr. Simeonov was moderator of the first panel discussion. BCCI asked the first question to Ministers Nona Karadzhova and Tomislav Donchev: “How...
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During a meeting held at BCCI, the President of the Chamber Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov discussed the development of the bilateral economic relations between Bulgaria and Ukraine with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Bulgaria H.E. Mr. Mykola Baltazhy and Mr. Dimytro Isachenko, Counselor at the Embassy of Ukraine. Trade between the countries registered a decrease in the first quarter of 2012. In 2011 Ukrainian tourists that visited Bulgaria were 250 000, while...
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Mr. Yousef Zurgani, Charge d’Affairs a.i. of the Embassy of Libya to Bulgaria met with the President of BCCI Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov. The businessman and representative of a company-member of the BCCI which has trade and economic interests in Libya Mr. Anastas Terzobaliev also took part in the meeting. Mr. Simeonov and his guests discussed the bilateral economic relations which are traditionally good, but unfortunately over the last few years trade volumes have been...
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At the suggestion of Mr. Slavi Binev, Chairman of the Civil Alliance for Real Democracy “GORD” a meeting with the President of BCCI Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov was held. Mrs. Polina Karastoyanova also took part in the meeting. Mr. Binev said that he wants to show his appreciation for the business which he came from and briefly presented “GORD” as a political formation uniting political parties, civil associations and individuals. According to him, the...
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A delegation from Jilin Province, China visited the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Among the guests were the Deputy Governor of Jilin Province, the Deputy President of the Jilin Provincial People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the Vice Director General of the Foreign Affairs (Overseas Chinese Affairs) Office of Jilin Province, as well as a representative of the Management Board of the largest meat processing company in China. Jilin Province is...
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At the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a meeting was held between Mr. Nikola Hristov, Chairman of the Bulgarian Association of Ship Brokers and Agents (BASBA) and Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov, President of BCCI. During the meeting opportunities for supplement to the “Regulation on the organization and exertion of border crossing and passport control, customs control, health control, veterinary medical and phytosanitary control, and control over the vehicles in the harbors...
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GS1 Bulgaria has the pleasure to invite you to a forum entitled “Prevention of the entry into the legal supply chain of falsified medicinal products. GS1 Automatic Identification in Healthcare.” The seminar is organized by GS1 Bulgaria in cooperation with ARPharM and BFU. • What are the requirements laid down in Directive 2011/62/EU regarding the prevention of the entry into the legal supply chain of falsified medicinal products? • What does the...
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The Decision of the Constitutional Court which acknowledges BCCI’s right to continue to represent the interests of its 52 000 members in the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation was one of the topics discussed during the meeting of the Council of Presidents of the Unified System of the BCCI and the Regional Chambers of Commerce. BCCI’s role in the regions was stressed. New opportunities for cooperation of Bulgarian businesses through the electronic commerce...
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A team composed of three of BCCI’s experts – Stefan Kostadinov, Lyubomir Danov and Lyubomir Gaydarov participated in the second Pétanque tournament organized by the French – Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 40 teams of 3 members participated in the competition which took place on 23 June 2012, in the Doctor’s Garden in Sofia, behind the National Library. Representatives of French companies working in Bulgaria, the Bulgarian Chamber of...
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The Management of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed its satisfaction with the Decision of the Constitutional Court on Case 2 of 2012 announced on the Court’s website. The members of the oldest (117 years) voluntary Bulgarian business organization are satisfied with the fact that the Judges have declared unconstitutional the requirement that employers’ organizations to which functions have been assigned by law cannot take part in the social...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry was informed by its Greek partners – the Union of Hellenic Chambers of Commerce about a substantial drop in tourist traffic in our Southern neighbour, mainly caused by misleading reports published in the international press about the economic climate in the country. In Greece tourism is one of the most dynamic and productive sectors, contributing decisively to the GDP growth, the reduction of unemployment and the expansion...
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On 22 June 2012, representatives of the Chinese company Sinohydro Group visited BCCI and met with the President of the Chamber and their Bulgarian colleagues working in the field of hydro power. Lv Liushan, General Manager of the company briefly presented its activity. Established in 1950, Sinohydro Group is the largest organization developing hydro projects in China. The company works in 4 fields – design and construction of hydro power facilities, installation of...
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The Secretary General of BCCI Vasil Todorov took part in a discussion organized by “Bulgaria for Citizens” Association together with representatives of other employers’ organizations and many economists. “We cannot but have an opinion on what the crisis in Greece means for Bulgaria, what the report of the European Commission about the economic situation in Bulgaria implies”, said the leader of the Association Meglena Kuneva in her welcoming...
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Over the period from 14th to 17th June 2012 the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry participated in the partners’ workshop of the "SAGITTARIUS" project in Venice - Italy. The project is implemented under the Southeastern Europe Programme and includes 19 organizations from 8 countries. The main objective is to promote tourism development through the use of cultural heritage. The project partners discussed the issues connected with making an advertising film for...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov presented with an Honorary Diploma H.E. Mrs. Danijela Barisic, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Croatia to Bulgaria on the occasion of the end of her term of office. There are great traditions in the partnership between BCCI, the Embassy of Croatia in Sofia and the Chamber of Commerce of Croatia. In 2011 a Bulgarian business delegation visited Zagreb. This year a delegation of Croatian companies...
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BCCI’s Vice President Georgi Stoev and Vice President of Vratsa Chamber of Commerce and Industry Iliyana Filipova are taking part in the Fifth meeting of the UN Committee of Commerce for Europe dedicated to boosting the economies in transition. The session is held in Geneva and focuses on the conditions of market access that the companies operating and trying to establish trade relations with economies in transition face. “We put great emphasis on the improvement of...
Full textEconomic reconstruction of Japan after the earthquake and Japanese - Bulgarian economic relations
- 19-06-2012
Successful Japanese investments in Bulgaria should be promoted and the exchange between Japanese and Bulgarian businessmen enhanced The low taxes, low labour costs and strategic geographic location are insufficient prerequisites for Japanese businessmen to increase their investments in Bulgaria. Among the challenges faced by Japanese companies are the unfinished infrastructure, shortage of qualified personnel, frequent legislative amendments and bureaucracy. The...
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The management of BCCI – President Tsvetan Simeonov, Vice-President Georgi Stoev and members of the Executive Council and Board of Directors met with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo Hashim Thaci and small delegation of representatives of his cabinet on 18 June 2012. Mr. Simeonov stressed that Bulgarian business hopes Prime Minister Thaci’s visit will have a positive impact not only on the political but on the economic relations. He said that BCCI...
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BCCI hosted the second business forum Sofia – Taipei. The event was organized jointly with the Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association and brought together 16 representatives of the business and public institutions in Taiwan and 40 Bulgarian businessmen. Mr. Krasimir Dachev, Member of the Board of Directors of BCCI opened the forum and said that the easiest way to learn how to do business with partners from this part of the world is to visit and get to know it....
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Employers consider youth unemployment a global problem which requires immediate action. It was ascertained that in the last 4 years the number of young unemployed people grew by 4 million, reaching a total of over 75 million. The International Labour Conference (ILC) arrived at those conclusions for 2012 during its 101st session, which ended in Geneva. The world confronts the threat of a severe crisis unless immediate and vigorous action is taken to increase youth employment...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with Mr. Ahmen Alkadasi, Charge d’Affairs a.i. of the Embassy of the Republic of Yemen in Sofia. Issues concerning the bilateral cooperation were discussed. The need to balance the trade between the two countries was ascertained. Mr. Alkadasi informed about the upcoming fourth session of the Joint Economic Cooperation Committee, which will take place in the autumn of 2012 in the capital of Yemen, Sana’a. BCCI will...
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At BCCI the first meeting with Mr. Luis Ferraz, newly-appointed Charge d’Affairs a.i. of the Embassy of Portugal in Sofia was held. The President of BCCI Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov and Mr. Ferraz discussed the economic situation in Bulgaria and Portugal as well as in the remaining EU Member States, together with the continuing economic crisis. From now on the Embassy of Portugal and BCCI will work together and will further cooperate and exchange ideas in order to encourage...
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The Bulgarian Association of Women Entrepreneurs in cooperation with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism organized a seminar on theme “Bulgaria’s progress in the establishment of competitive clusters”. The seminar was held at BCCI on 15 June 2012. Leading experts in the sector made presentations on: - “Support for the development of clusters in Bulgaria”, Mr. Rosen Draganov, Chief...
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At BCCI a new project “Integrated services for Bulgarian entrepreneurs” was presented. The project is funded by Operational Programme Human Resources Development and is developed by the National Association of Municipal Clerks in Bulgaria in cooperation with the Association of Municipalities from the Ribera district, autonomous region of Valencia. Before the meeting in Sofia, similar information meetings were held in the towns of Varna, Gabrovo, Targovishte, Stara...
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“We want emphasis to be placed on support for companies so that they have more qualified and better trained employees, as well as on lowering the age for entrepreneurship training and increasing the hours of training in those skills”, the President of BCCI said in his speech during the session of the Economic Development and Social Policy Council. The proposals included in the position-paper of the Economic Development and Social Policy Council entitled “Inclusive...
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A meeting between BCCI’s President and the Managing Director of the Spanish holding Yaiza Trus, Mr. Diego Saez de Egufiaz Kamara and Mr. Iliya Todorov, Manager of DB Bulgaria LTD was held at the Chamber. DB Bulgaria LTD is a Bulgarian company, which is a part of the Spanish holding company. DB Bulgaria is a company that manages real estates of Yaiza Trust in Bulgaria. The company has diversified activities and comprises both investment and management of real estates as...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its partners in Singapore – the European Chamber of Commerce in Singapore and Singapore Business Federation organized a business seminar on theme “How to do business in Singapore and Southeast Asia”. According to the World Bank classification for 2012, it is very easy to do business in Singapore. Over the last few years the Asian country has become the chosen destination of many European companies. Singapore is a...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov attended the inauguration of the ALC Bulgaria plant in the village of Moussachevo, Municipality Elin Pelin near Sofia. The factory was launched by the Bulgarian Prime Minister Mr. Boyko Borisov and H.E. Sheila Camerer, Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to Bulgaria. Prime Minister Borisov said in his speech that he was really pleased to welcome investors who make plants, real production, and create jobs. He also mentioned...
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The Presidents of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and Haskovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry Yancho Yanev discussed the upcoming visit of Minister Delyan Dobrev to the Region of Haskovo tomorrow. Yancho Yanev discussed at length the visit of the business delegation of members of Haskovo CCI to the capital of the Kurdish autonomous region in Iraq - Erbil. The Bulgarian business delegation was led by Ms. Dobrinka Prodanova, President of Plovdiv Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Mr. Yancho...
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On 8th June 2012 in Belgrade, Serbia the 43rd regular session of the Business Council of the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) took place. The meeting was hosted by Serbia Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The purpose of the meeting was to review the work of the Organization, its active projects and initiatives, as well as to pass on the Presidency for the second half of 2012 to the Turkish partner – the Foreign Economic Cooperation Council. The...
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The Bulgarian – Vietnamese Business Forum held in Sofia was another step in the development of the bilateral commercial relations between the two countries. It was organized by the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism. The forum was held within the 22nd session of the Intergovernmental Bulgarian – Vietnamese Joint Committee for Trade and Economic, Scientific and...
Full textBCCI presented a statement at the International Labour Conference on behalf of Bulgarian employers
- 06-06-2012
On 6th June, the Secretary General of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vasil Todorov, made a statement on behalf of Bulgarian organizations of employers before the participants in the 101st regular session of the International Labour Conference. Emphasis in the speech was placed on youth unemployment and the measures proposed by Bulgarian employers’ organizations to reduce it. The statement focused on improving the quality of education and training entrepreneurial...
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The experience of Poland – the country which has created the most efficient system for European funds management and absorption, was presented at a Conference under the auspices of H.E. Mr. Leszek Hensel - Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Bulgaria and of Mr. Tomislav Donchev, Bulgarian Minister for EU Funds Management. At the end of the conference the winners of the national prize “Golden Euro” were announced. They have achieved the highest results in EU...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov signed the National Agreement “First Job”. The document was signed in execution of the National Initiative “Jobs for Young People in Bulgaria 2012 – 2013”. With it, the Government and the national representative organizations of employers and labour unions commit to work together to implement initiatives supporting the inclusion of young people in the labour market. Mr. Simeonov expressed hope that the agreement...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted business meetings with Chinese companies from Liaonin Province. Representatives of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, Dalian Sub-council were also among the official guests. The series of business meetings were opened by the President of BCCI, who stressed that Chinese delegations most actively seek cooperation with Bulgaria. BCCI will work to help Bulgaria remain a source of stability on the Balkans and will...
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The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tsvetan Simeonov welcomed the participants in the conference “Introducing Leading Israel’s Technologies”, which was held at the invitation of the Embassy of Israel and Volaro International. The Ambassador of Israel H.E. Mr. Shaul Kamisa Raz also gave a welcoming speech. Mr. Simeonov said that the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is already working in cooperation with an Israeli company...
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Business delegation from the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services of Rabat, Morocco visited the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry on 4 July 2012. BCCI organized business meetings between Bulgarian and Moroccan entrepreneurs with the assistance of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Sofia. The event was opened by the BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov, who stressed that Bulgarian – Moroccan bilateral relations are excellent but the economic potential has not...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry presented the former Secretary General of the International Organization of Employers (IOE) Mr. Antonio Penalosa with an Honorary Diploma for his personal contribution. The award was presented by the Secretary General of BCCI Vasil Todorov, who is taking part in the current session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva. BCCI’s diploma is granted for increasing the awareness and coordination in the actions and positions of...
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The Vice-President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr. Georgi Stoev opened a seminar within the Taiwan Business Forum for business meetings with companies manufacturing industrial fasteners, which took place in Grand Hotel Sofia. In his welcoming address, Mr. Stoev noted that the Cooperation Agreement signed between BCCI and TAITRA has helped stimulate the exchange of business delegations. More than 150 Taiwanese companies, mainly from the sector of machine-building...
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The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tsvetan Simeonov welcomed a group of experts from Iraq, visiting our country in order to prepare a session of a joint committee. He emphasized that Iraq used to be a traditional economic partner of Bulgaria. After democracy was established in Iraq, there have been prerequisites and conditions to restore the good trade relations between the two countries. BCCI has been a partner of the Federation of Iraqi Chambers of...
Full textMay
BCCI is one of the co-founders of an Industrial Forum. The Chamber signed the Memorandum of Understanding for the Establishment of the Forum yesterday during the 10th Jubilee International Exhibition of Defense and Security Equipment “Hemus – 2012”. The Minister of Defense Anyu Angelov attended the constituent meeting of the Industrial Forum, together with representatives of the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism, the Ministry of Interior, Bulgarian...
Full textEUROCHAMBRES: The business needs knowledge and financing to generate growth and employment
- 31-05-2012
Today in Brussels the 111th Plenary Assembly of the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry (EUROCHAMBRES) was held. BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov took part in the event together with the representatives of 32 Chambers of Commerce from Europe and the region. The President of EUROCHAMBRES Alessandro Barberis reviewed the Association’s achievements in influencing the legislative outcome, revising the institutional procedures or proposing new programmes,...
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Benefits for nearly BGN 40 000 will be allocated for disadvantaged youth who wish to continue their education in university, the President of the Republic of Bulgaria Rosen Plevneliev announced at the opening of the jobs and educational fair for high-school graduates from homes for children deprived of parental care, specialised and municipal insitutions. President Rosen Plevneliev hosted the traditional prom for disadvantaged and underprivileged high-school graduates in...
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On 29 May 2012 the general report and election meeting of Veliko Tarnovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry was held. At the meeting a new Management Board consisting of five members was elected, and the President of the Chamber Kiril Iliev was re-elected on his position. Veliko Tarnovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry also appointed Control Committee consisting of three persons. The meeting adopted the Chamber’s work programme for the next 5...
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The President of the International Organization of Employers (IOE) Dato Azman Shah Haron gave a speech during the General Assembly of the IOE, held in Geneva, Switzerland. He presented three priority axes set by employers in order to overcome the world economic and financial crisis. They include wide-scale distribution of information about the IOE policies on international level – among related organizations with the UN, other international organizations with similar...
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On 29 May 2012 the general report and election meeting of Veliko Tarnovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry was held. At the meeting a new Management Board consisting of five members was elected, and the President of the Chamber Kiril Iliev was re-elected on his position. Veliko Tarnovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry also appointed Control Committee consisting of three persons. The meeting adopted the Chamber’s work programme for the next 5...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in cooperation with the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the Ministry of Agriculture and Foods are organizing Bulgarian – Vietnamese Business Forum, which will take place on 7 June 2012 /Thursday/, at 11:00 a.m. in Hotel Anel, Conference hall Anel, fl. 6, Sofia, 14, Todor Alexandrov Blvd. The business forum will take place simultaneously with the session of the Intergovernmental Bulgarian – Vietnamese Joint...
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Blagoevgrad Chamber of Commerce and Industry celebrated the 20th anniversary of its establishment. On the occasion of its jubilee, it received a Plaque and Diploma from BCCI. The celebration was held in the Red Hall of the American University on 29 May 2012. Congratulatory letters were sent by the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works. The Regional Governor of Blagoevgrad Kostadin Hadzhigaev represented the executive...
Full textTrade between Iran and Bulgaria is often done through the mediation of traders from other countries
- 29-05-2012
The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with the President of the Iranian – Bulgarian Business Association Saied Hadei, who has been representing the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Mines in our country for a few months. Opportunities for bilateral economic cooperation were discussed. Bulgaria can propose to the Iranian market mainly food products – cheese, meat, cans; as well as fertilizers. Iran has successfully developed its ceramics, glass and...
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The Secretary General of BCCI Vasil Todorov will participate in the 101st session of the International Labour Conference, which is to be held in Geneva, Switzerland from 30 May to 15 June 2012. Each of the 183 Member States of the International Labour Organization (ILO) is represented by a delegation consisting of government delegates, as well as representatives of the employers’ organizations and labour unions. The agenda of the largest ILO event includes a...
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The regular General Assembly of the International Organization GS1 was held in Cartagena, Colombia. During the session, the financial report for 2010-2011 was reviewed, followed by a report of the Committee developing the GS1 principles and architecture. Nominees for new members of the GS1 Board were considered, including representatives of Kraft Foods and DHL. The results of various key initiatives were discussed, such as: • Data quality; • B2C/ reliability...
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The newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Federative Republic of Brazil Mr. Chavdar Nikolov visited BCCI. During the meeting, the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov introduced his guest to the main activities of the Chamber, its well-developed regional structure and membership in all major international organizations, as well as to its well-functioning Court of Arbitration. H.E. Chavdar Nikolov and Tsvetan Simeonov...
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Representatives of Rating agency Fitch visited BCCI. Matteo Napolitano, Director and Rowena Macfarlane, Analyst got acquainted to the expectations of the business regarding the business climate in the country and the areas in which measures for promotion of entrepreneurship should be adopted. BCCI provided the representatives of Fitch with the following information: • Expectations of the members of BCCI for 2012 in several important aspects: business climate in the country; sales...
Full textBCCI participated in an entrepreneurship lesson organized by 23rd Secondary School in Sofia
- 22-05-2012
On 22 May 2012, representatives of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry attended the presentation of the newly-acquired entrepreneurial skills by the students of 23rd Secondary School in Sofia. They witnessed an interesting entrepreneurship lesson taught by the students from first “B” grade and their teacher Mrs. Sofia Ilieva. Among the guests were the Deputy Minister of Education, Youth and Science Milena Damyanova and the Deputy Mayor of Sofia Todor Chobanov. In...
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The regular General Assembly of the International Organization GS1 began on 21 May in Cartagena, Colombia. The event is hosted by GS1 Colombia. The General Assembly has an important role in the management and control of GS1’s activity and for the determination of its future work in various strategic spheres. Top representatives of industry and managers of large multinational companies from over 70 countries participate in the General Assembly alongside the representatives of...
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Representatives of the Israeli company “VOLARO” visited the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Mr. Shlomi Waizel, CEO and Mrs. Kichka Dimitrova, Assistant introduced the activity of the company which works in the following sectors: IT, medical tourism (in Israel), pharmacy, emergency medical centers, etc. The President of BCCI Tsvetan SImeonov acquainted his guests with the activity of the Chamber and discussed the development of bilateral economic...
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At the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a round table discussion was held on the initiative of the Innovation Council with BCCI and Enterprise Europe Network. The meeting was dedicated to discussing the role of business and science for planning funding for modernization of Bulgarian industry and implementation of innovations in the following Programming Period of the European Union 2014 – 2020. The highlights of the National Strategic Reference Framework 2014 - 2020...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with the Secretary General of the Bulgarian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Stefan Kinov. The Bulgarian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry was established in 2010 and has the primary mission of promoting bilateral Bulgarian-Chinese economic relations. During the meeting ideas were exchanged on how to accelerate the expansion of trade relations with China and to increase Bulgarian exports to the Asian country. According to Mr....
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The newly elected Chairman of the French-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce Stephane Delahaye met with the Management of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and Todor Tabakov, Member of the Executive Council of BCCI discussed future cooperation with Mr. Delahaye. Mr. Delahaye presented the French-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce, which represents 95% of French companies working in Bulgaria. Even though France is still not among the...
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Raiffeisen Bank Bulgaria Directors Ivelina Miltenova and Mihail Atanasov presented the bank’s new Asset Management services at a meeting with the President of BCCI, Tsvetan Simeonov. The meeting aimed to promote among investors and members of the BCCI opportunities for benefiting from the unutilized and unused cash resources in the country. In this connection, opportunities for low-risk investment provided by various funds were proposed. These investments are exempt...
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The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov and members of the Executive Council of the BCCI met with Mrs. Meglena Kuneva and her team representing the “Bulgaria for Citizens” Civil Association. During the meeting positions on fundamental economic and civil society issues were exchanged, such as: • Public procurements; • Efficiency of the public administration, reducing the terms for provision of...
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The newly elected Chairperson of the Bulgarian Soft Drinks Association Mrs. Zhana Velichkova met with the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. During the meeting the parties discussed the need of legislation promoting the development of the soft drinks and mineral waters sector, helping to strengthen the export potential of Bulgarian companies and curbing the grey sector of economy. Proposals for the joint organization of topical exhibitions for the sector, business...
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The newly appointed Bulgarian Ambassador to the United Mexican States H.E. Mr. Hristo Gudzhev visited the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry on 14 May 2012. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and the new Ambassador discussed the development of trade and economic relations with Central America. Ambassador Gudzhev will be accredited to Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. He emphasized promoting more active cooperation between...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov was one of the key speakers at the First International Investment Conference BULGARIA BUSINESS UP. In comparison to previous years, BCCI’s survey of business expectations for 2012 shows that the e-Government still hasn’t lived up to expectations of companies, the President of the Chamber said in his presentation. Regarding investments, the expectations are still quite modest according to the replies of about 700 companies,...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov had a working meeting with Galina Niforou, Managing Director of the Balkans International Wine Competition (BIWC) to discuss the preparation of the first Balkans wine forum, which will take place from 14 to 17 June 2012 in Sofia, Grand Hotel Sofia. The event will be accompanied by the Balkans International Wine Competition. The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is co-organizer of the event. In order to attract the widest...
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On 10 May, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to Argentina Maxim Gaytandzhiyski visited BCCI and met with the BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov. Ambassador Gaytandzhiyski has had previous experience on the South American continent and in his new position will also be responsible for Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay and Bolivia. The guest was introduced to the activities of the Chamber and the services it provides to Bulgarian and foreign companies. BCCI’s...
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The latest meeting of the members of the Euroclub at BCCI was dedicated to the candidature of Sofia for European Cultural Capital in 2019. The organizers from the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and Sofia Development Association had invited more that 30 representatives of the diplomatic corps. The Mayor of Sofia Mrs. Yordanka Fandakova was the main speaker of the event and presented the candidature of Sofia for this prestigious European award as well as what has...
Full textBCCI will give a press conference on the future of 4000 suspended or belated audit proceedings
- 07-05-2012
WHEN: 8th May 2012 (Tuesday), 11:30 a.m. WHERE: Hall A, BCCI premises, 9 Iskar Str. (possibility to park in the Blue zone or two private parking lots nearby) WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF: The President of BCCI Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov and Mr. Todor Tabakov, Member of the Executive Council of the BCCI WHY: According to BCCI’s data, currently there are 2900 pending audit proceedings and another 1000 suspended audit proceedings, most of which unfounded. According to the Tax and...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov took part in a conference on theme: “The cross-border region Bulgaria – Macedonia – a good place for apparel production”. The conference was held on 5 May in Kyustendil as part of the project Cross-border Cooperation Bulgaria – Macedonia, implemented by the Branch Organization for Textiles and Clothing (BOTC) in cooperation with the Commercial Textile Association – Textile Cluster Stip and Kyustendil Chamber of...
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On 5th – 6th May, nine Executive Directors of the World Bank Group, representing 72 member states, visited Bulgaria to get personally acquainted with the progress of the unique knowledge-based partnership in support of Bulgaria’s EU membership. The visit took place nearly a year after the World Bank Board approved a new Strategy for Partnership with Bulgaria and only several months after the signing of Memorandum of Understanding to accelerate the absorption of EU funds...
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The Vice President of BCCI Mr. Georgi Stoev met with representatives of the Iranian company “Microsource” at the Chamber. The Iranian company was represented by Mr. Farshad Fouladi, President, Mr. Ali Fouladi, Vice-President and Mr. Soheil Golpour, CEO. Mr. Roman Stoyanov, Partner at the law company “Penkov, Markov and Partners” and Mr. Evgheni Nikolov, Attorney at the same company also took part in the meeting. The activity of the Iranian company...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov held a working meeting with representatives of the German company “Analytic Jena AG”. The German company was represented by Mr. Jens Adomat, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors and Mr. Reinhard Jacob, Director of the Optics Division. Mr. Vladimit Yosifov, Intellectual Property Expert, Prof. Ivo Rangelov, Head of Department Micro-Nanoelectronical Systems at Technical University Ilmenau – Germany and Assoc. Prof. Zhivko...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov took part in the first meeting of the Economic Development and Social Policy Council with President Plevneliev and presented a Position-paper. The full text is available below: DEAR MR. PRESIDENT, The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) would like to express the following position with regard to the materials for discussion on theme “Competitiveness and investments”: We reckon that Bulgaria’s position in...
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Twelve representatives of joint and foreign business organizations which have offices in Bulgaria took part in the meeting. The main theme of the meeting was the Councils with the President of the Republic of Bulgaria. BCCI as an organization of businesses and employers participates in the sittings of the Councils and shares the opinions of its members at a wider representative forum, which includes Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Regional Governors, representatives of the trade unions,...
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On 2 May 2012, the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with the newly-appointed Ambassador of Indonesia to Bulgaria, H.E. Mr. Bunyan Saptomo. Mr. Simeonov acquainted his guest to BCCI’s activity and emphasized the Chamber’s excellent cooperation with the Embassy of Indonesia in Sofia. Ambassador Saptomo defined his mission in Bulgaria as encouraging the positive relations not only on governmental level, but also for promotion of the business relations between...
Full textApril
On the occasion of 28 April – the International Commemoration Day for Dead and Injured Workers, the Secretary General of BCCI Vasil Todorov attended the wreath laying ceremony at the memorial of workers killed in occupational accidents in front of the headquarters of the Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria, in Sofia. “Each year employers stand beside us on this day”, said the President of the Confederation Plamen Dimitrov. Members of...
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The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tsvetan Simeonov signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation /AZPROMO/, represented by its President Adil Mammadov. The signing took place during a business meeting between Bulgarian and Azerbaijani companies in Baku today, 27 April 2012. The meeting is part of the visit of the Bulgarian Prime Minister Mr. Boyko Borisov in Baku. The main purpose of the visit is...
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In one of BCCI’s halls, a press-conference and seminar were held in connection with the Chamber’s participation in the initiative of the European Union to promote the exports of European technologies to India. The Secretary General of BCCI Vasil Todorov and the Director of the European Business and Technology Center /EBTC/ in India Poul Jensen answered the journalists’ questions. H.E. Divyabh Manchanda, Ambassador of India to Bulgaria also took part in the...
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The management of b2b Media Group visited the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in continuation of the existing cooperation. The focus of discussion was the upcoming second edition of the competition for the greenest company in Bulgaria, which for the first time will be accompanied by the international Green Day Forum. In times when companies are trying to overcome the aftermath of the crisis and to increase their stability, many of them are turning to corporate social...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and the Vice-President Georgi Stoev met with Ms. Myonghi Kim, the newly-appointed Director General of KOTRA Sofia (the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency) and Mr. Georgi Iliev, Marketing Research Manager in KOTRA Sofia. Mrs. Kim said that BCCI was the first Bulgarian institution she visited after her appointment as Director General. The excellent communication between the two organizations was discussed together with the good...
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On 26 April 2012, the European Business and Technology Center (EBTC) in cooperation with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) organize a presentation of the business opportunities in India for European companies. The main goal of EBTC is to promote European clean technologies in India, mainly in the sectors of biotechnologies, energy, environment and transport. For the media: 11:00 a.m. – press conference in Hall A, BCCI’s premises, simultaneous...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov opened an international conference on theme “Working towards a sustainable waste management system”. He welcomed the partners and participants on behalf of the 52 000 companies – members of the Chamber, more than 100 sectorial organizations and 28 regional chambers of commerce united in the system of the Bulgarian chambers of commerce and industry. The waste issue is crucial to our future and BCCI supports this position...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov participated in the conference “Building the Change – Bulgaria: infrastructure and projects for the country’s growing economy”, organized by Confindustria Bulgaria (the association of Italian companies in Bulgaria). The topic of change of the infrastructure for a growing economy is of utmost importance and therefore supported by BCCI. The successful practices of other companies are most reassuring for investors and it is...
Full textMeeting with the President of the Karachay–Cherkessia Chamber of Commerce and Industry at BCCI
- 19-04-2012
On 19 April 2012, the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Karachay–Cherkess Republic, Vladimir Anatolievich Abitov met with the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. The Karachay–Cherkess Republic is a federal subject of the Russian Federation. It is located on the north slope of Greater Caucasus and is part of the South Federal District and the Volga Economic Region. The population of the Republic is around 478 thousand people, of which 137 thousand live...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry fully supports the positions sent to us before today’s meeting. I will only make a short comment on the specific proposals. Regarding the transport infrastructure: It seems that the NORTH – SOUTH direction is underestimated. Including, it is debatable whether the peripheral or central infrastructure of the tunnel under mount Shipka should be developed, because it is hardly useful to have heavy traffic near the tourist...
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BCCI hosted business meetings with Chinese businessmen and representatives of the chambers of commerce of Jiangsu Province in continuation of the successful Bulgarian – Chinese business forum held with companies from the Province in 2011. The series of business meetings was opened by Georgi Stoev, Vice-President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who stressed the need to further intensify the cooperation between Bulgaria and Jiangsu Province, China. BCCI will seek...
Full textTsvetan Simeonov participates in the International Conference on Green Industry Innovation in Oslo
- 17-04-2012
Today the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov participates in the International Conference dedicated to Green Industry Innovation, which takes place in Oslo, Norway. The conference is part of the Green Industry Innovation Programme of the Norwegian Innovation Fund and is organized by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Innovation Norway, in cooperation with the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprises. Seven beneficiary states are implementing the green industry and...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry started an arbitration course for young jurists. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov said at the opening session that the training guarantees the highest quality of knowledge on arbitration issues in the country. After the national arbitration institution was closed a year ago, BCCI continued to provide and further developed the positive aspects of this legal possibility, which allows companies that have included an arbitration clause...
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The state of the construction industry in Bulgaria, the aggravating circumstances related to the increase of the prices of fuels and the necessity to accelerate payments in the sector were the topics of a discussion held between Tsvetan Simeonov, BCCI President and Kamen Peshov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Glavbolgarstroy. The ways the sector can settle any arisen disputes more easily by utilizing the available possibilities in case of a stipulated arbitration clause in the...
Full textVienna Economic Talks – Sofia Meeting enjoyed immense interest of participants from 16 countries
- 06-04-2012
The forum was dedicated to an extremely well-selected topic, due to the partners that organized the event – Vienna Economic Forum and the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The topics discussed at the forum concern everyone, said the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov in his closing remarks. At a moment when we strive to make Europe more competitive and attractive, the liberalisation of the regional market is of utmost importance. Most of the EU Member States regard...
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The new Ambassador of Bulgaria to Sweden, Svetlin Stoev visited BCCI and met with the President Tsvetan Simeonov. The joint activity of BCCI and its Swedish partners was presented. The two chambers of commerce maintain constant contact, both bilaterally and within the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry it was explained. During the meeting, possibilities to present high-quality Bulgarian wines on the Swedish market, which is highly regulated in this...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry presented the Third Secretary responsible for Economic Issues at the Embassy of Japan to Bulgaria, Mr. Mitsunobu Fukumori with a Diploma on the occasion of the end of his term of office in Bulgaria. BCCI and the Japanese Embassy enjoy strong cooperation. The successful visit to Japan of the Bulgarian business delegation accompanying the Prime Minister of Bulgaria in the beginning of 2011, which was organized with the assistance...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted Vienna Economic Talks, Sofia meeting, thus allowing Bulgarian business to participate in a conference dedicated to the extremely topical for South Eastern Europe issue – “Liberalisation of Regional Markets” with main accent put on liberalisation of the energy markets, liberalisation of the labour market and the experience of foreign investors in the region. The interesting themes discussed at the conference...
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How to improve administrative services for businesses at municipal level – that is the major question the World Bank will seek an answer to in a new report to be ready by summer. In this connection, Bank experts met with BCCI management and the regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry within BCCI‘s network. Mr. Evgeni Evgeniev, Private Sector Development Specialist at the World Bank presented the main objectives of this report. Mr. Evgeniev briefed the chairpersons of...
Full textMarch
Transition to green economy in the Black Sea region was discussed at international seminar in Sofia
- 30-03-2012
BCCI is a partner in organizing the seminar “Green Business in Bulgaria and the Black Sea Region. Challenges and opportunities”, which was held on 30 March in Inter Expo Center - Sofia. The event accompanies the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Exhibition and Congress. The seminar was initiated by the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Business Council (BSEC BC) with the support of BCCI, UNDP Black Sea Trade & Investment Promotion Programme...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with the President of the joint Turkish – Bulgarian Business Council, Yalcin Egemen. The need to reschedule the regional Turkish – Greek – Bulgarian Forum, which was planned to take place in April in Canakkale, Turkey for June 2012 was discussed. The postponement is necessary because of the harsh economic situation in Greece. Business representatives from Turkey, Greece and Bulgaria interested in the sectors of agriculture, food...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with the President of the joint Turkish – Bulgarian Business Council, Yalcin Egemen. The need to reschedule the regional Turkish – Greek – Bulgarian Forum, which was planned to take place in April in Canakkale, Turkey for June 2012 was discussed. The postponement is necessary because of the harsh economic situation in Greece. Business representatives from Turkey, Greece and Bulgaria interested in the sectors of...
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By a coincidence, for the last three months foreign trade - the "locomotive of Bulgarian economy", has seemingly been slowing down, we are even likely to have a decrease as compared with the same period last year. “The aim is to gain the attention of business circles to this traditional instrument of foreign trade, namely factoring - a well-tried expedient of foreign trade operators”, Tsvetan Simeonov said. He participated in the discussion on stimulating business...
Full textBCCI will provide Bulgarian tour agencies with a new product related to religious tourism
- 29-03-2012
Since 2011, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been developing the “RECULTIVATUR” project, which aims to establish an interconnected system of religious and cultural sites and cultural routes in order to stimulate the development of religious tourism. On the basis of the gathered information and using the geographic information system (GIS), Bulgarian tour agents will be able to easily and quickly develop tourist packages including cultural monuments with religious...
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Arnaud Martenat, General Manager of Sodexo Pass Bulgaria visited BCCI and met with the President of the Chamber Tsvetan Simeonov. In pursuance of the contract they signed last year, BCCI and Sodexo Pass Bulgaria cooperate for the promotion and distribution of food vouchers. The company is the national leader in providing motivation solutions for employees and boasts the largest number of food vouchers and other social benefits issued in our country, as well as a well-developed network...
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Representatives of the City Council of Lisburn, Northern Ireland visited BCCI on 28 March 2012. The Chairman of the Economic Development Committee Alderman Jim Dillon and the Economic Development Manager of Lisburn City Council Hazel King met with the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. Mr. Simeonov presented the structure and activities of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and explained that the national chamber is modeled after the chambers of commerce and...
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Obviously public procurements pose a problem if, within one week only, two major events have discussed their integrity and measures for prevention of corruption in the award of public contracts. The conception for the Center for Prevention of Corruption and Organized Crime (BORKOR) now has clearly defined goals, one of which is combating unfair public procurements. The society seems to acquire a clearer idea of what it could expect from the work of this institution, the President of BCCI...
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Ever since the Valiant Tailor of Andersen’s tale the rule thrice measure, once cut has applied. Not to say that tailors were not good enough masters. They were, but they knew the importance of exact measurement. Because once you start cutting there is no turning back. The fabric or the leather either becomes a garment, or goes to waste. Nowadays entrepreneurs are like tailors – they take measures, examine, think and finally appoint employees or workers who help them...
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Nearly twice as many resources for roads, highways and sewage infrastructure are envisaged for the next planning period 2014 – 2020 as compared to the current period, said Tomislav Donchev, Minister of EU funds Management at a conference “Bulgaria and the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014 – 2020”. The forum was organized by the Economic Policy Institute and “Hanns Seidel” Foundation. Bulgaria can rely on BGN 17.1 billion grants. Together...
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Over 200 representatives of Bulgarian and Chinese businesses participated in the business forum organized by the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME). The forum was organized on the occasion of the official visit of Mr. Jiang Yaopin, Deputy Minister of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China to our country at the invitation of his Bulgarian counterpart, the Deputy...
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Among the things of utmost importance for business that must be included in the future changes of the Public Procurement Act, is all public procurement information to be computerized. You will hear more often that BCCI wants clear and exact criteria for the rankings under public procurements. The criteria must be clearly specified and a computer system, not committees, should rank the candidates. Then, the fact will be subject to public control. It was mentioned that the committees are...
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At BCCI a meeting was held with Mr. George Minchev, President and Mrs. Polixena Krastanova, Executive Director of the Bulgarian Association for Freight Forwarding, Transport and Logistics (NSBS). The association is a long-standing member of the Chamber and a member of the Council of Sectorial Organizations. Recently it celebrated its 20th anniversary and was awarded with an Honorary Diploma by the BCCI on the occasion. Issues related to the efficiency of freight forwarding and...
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On 22nd March, the annual report meeting of the Arbitral Colleges at the Arbitration Court with BCCI for 2011 was held. Around 50 arbitrators – renounced Bulgarian legal specialists – attended the event. It was reported that the tendency from last years for the number of cases to grow was preserved in 2011. According to the information available, the other 15 officially registered arbitration institutions in Bulgaria hear a total of about 1/10 of the cases heard annually by the...
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“Clarifying in which cases the assets of the Silver (Pension) Fund will be considered part of the fiscal reserve, and in which cases they won’t, is of key importance”, said Todor Tabakov, Member of the Board of Directors of the Silver Fund and member of the Executive Council of the BCCI. He was one of the participants in a round table discussion dedicated to the proposed amendments to the Silver Fund Act, organized by the Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association...
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Marc Debels, Commercial Counselor at the Economic Mission “UBIFRANCE – Bulgaria” visited BCCI. At a meeting with the President of the Chamber Tsvetan Simeonov, he presented the activity of the French Agency for International Business Development “UBIFRANCE” which has around 70 offices worldwide. At the beginning of 2012 the Agency opened its Bulgarian office, which testifies to the growing interest of investors to our country. UBIFRANCE – Bulgaria assists and...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry organized a presentation for Bulgarian companies willing to register a Trade Representative Office in the Russian Federation. The seminar was organized and held with the active participation of the Federal Budgetary Institution “State Registration Chamber” with the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov opened the event saying that in times of crisis and insecurity Bulgarian business is...
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On 20 March 2012, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council organized a seminar in Sofia to encourage more Bulgarian companies to explore the business potential in the region and to take advantage of the successful business opportunities it provides. The seminar was opened by the Deputy Representative of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels Ms. Hinny Lam. She highlighted the unique principle “one state,...
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In the period 8th March - 15th March 2012 BCCI conducted a questionnaire survey among its members in relation to the changes in the draft of the Spatial Development Act (SDA), which stipulate that employers are required to provide at least one room for sports activities and sanitary facilities. The obligations in the draft amendment of the SDA and the Physical Education and Sports Act (PESA) are defined as follows: A new article is created, i.e. Art. 37a. “In newly-constructed...
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The newly-appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria in Albania Dimitar Arnaudov visited BCCI before setting off for Tirana. Various aspects of the bilateral and multilateral relations in which Bulgaria and Albania participate were discussed. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov informed our new Ambassador of the Chamber’s relations with partner organizations in Albania. BCCI maintains excellent contacts with the Union of Albanian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the Chamber...
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On the occasion of the upcoming Bulgarian – Chinese Business Forum, which is scheduled to take place on 26 March 2012 in Sofia, a working meeting was held between the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and the Commercial Counselor at the Embassy of China in Bulgaria Lu Yongming. The visit of the Chinese business delegation is organized on the occasion of the official visit of Mr. Jiang Yaopin, Deputy Minister of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China. The Chinese companies,...
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The General Assembly of the Association of Balkan Chambers (ABC) ended last week in Nicosia, Cyprus. In a final position-paper the Association’s tasks for this year were outlined, the most important of which include: • Active participation of the chambers of commerce and industry in the region to improve the business climate by bettering the conditions and legislation; • Promoting investment opportunities in the region; • BCCI to continue its work in support of the...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov took part in the meeting of the Minister of Education with Rectors of Bulgarian universities at which possibilities to strengthen the higher education system were discussed. The discussion was held at the invitation of the World Bank’s mission in Bulgaria. Universities are now able to independently promote doctors and professors. The acting student loan system allows the state to pay the loans of families, the two members of which are students...
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“Over the years BCCI has worked in favour of female entrepreneurship by taking part in European, regional and national projects to promote the broad participation of women in business”, said Radka Stamenova, Member of the Executive Council of BCCI, Chair of the Bulgarian Association of Women Entrepreneurs and President of Business and Professional Women at a national round table discussion dedicated to “European and national policies to secure the promotion of women in...
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The International Construction Fair which will take place in Istanbul, Turkey in the period 2 – 6 May 2012 was presented at a forum at BCCI. The event was opened by the Vice President of BCCI Mr. Georgy Stoev. The forum aimed to present the potential of Bulgaria and Turkey and to pave the way to future joint projects in the field of construction. H.E. Ismail Aramaz, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkey to Bulgaria also welcomed the participants in the...
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The General Assembly of the Association of Balkan Chambers /ABC/ continues today in Nicosia, Cyprus with discussions about the role of chambers of commerce and industry in the conditions of crisis and economic difficulties. The Deputy Minister for European Affairs of Cyprus Mr. Andreas Mavroyiannis made a presentation on the preparation, challenges and priorities of the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2012. Investment...
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In the period 15 – 17 March 2012 in Nicosia, the general assembly of the Association of Balkan Chambers (ABC) will be held. The meeting will be hosted by the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Representatives of the national chambers and unions of Greece, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Cyprus, Serbia, Turkey and Montenegro will participate in the meeting. In 2011 the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry held the presidency of ABC. At the end of last November, the...
Full textBusiness forum with Chinese companies from the sectors of machine building and electronics
- 15-03-2012
On 26 March 2012, at 9:00 a.m., in Sheraton Hotel Sofia Balkan, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products will held a business forum with Chinese companies from the sectors of machine building and electronics. The event is organized on the occasion of the official visit of Mr. Jiang Yaopin, Deputy Minister of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China. China Chamber of Commerce for Import...
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The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tsvetan Simeonov opened the seventh consecutive exhibition of gallery Art Visa Bulgaria held at BCCI. The newest works of five Bulgarian female artists were presented: Alexandrina Karadzhova, Nina Zlateva, Tsvetelina Rusalieva, Lidiya Stefan and Atanaska Stoyanova. The most sublime moment of the female artists’ exhibition of Art Visa Bulgaria was the fashion show – project of Alexandrina Karadzhova (Acrista)...
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“Europe of solidarity and/or Europe of selfishness?” was the theme of the second public debate held in the National Assembly as part of the initiative “European Talks in the Parliament”. Special guests of the event were Ms. Kristalina Georgiva, European Commissioner responsible for international cooperation, humanitarian aid and crisis response, and Mr. Daniel Gros, Director of the Center for European Policy Studies. Ms. Ingrid Shikova, Chairperson of...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the State Registration Chamber with the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation are organizing a seminar “How to register Trade Representative Office in Russia”. Join us on 21 March 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at BCCI’s headquarters, 9 Iskar Str., Sofia. The requirements for accreditation of Representative Offices of foreign companies in the Russian Federation and accreditation of Branches of foreign companies will...
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Third Spanish company visited the Chamber this week. Ms. Alba Lopez, Project Manager at the Spanish company “Metodo” presented the company’s achievements in the field of consultation services for the development and implementation of projects funded by EU programmes and other sources. The company has already set up its office in Bulgaria, in addition to its offices in other countries in Southeast Europe and Latin America. The company also operates in the field of...
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The producer and screenwriter of the movie “Operacia - Shmenti kapeli 2011” Vladislav Karamfilov – Vladi Vargala visited BCCI to receive assistance for the distribution of his movie in Spain. The 118-minute-long movie, whose Bulgarian premiere took place in October 2011, was recently presented in Brussels and Nish on the occasion of the Bulgarian national holiday and will be screened for our fellow-countrymen in Spain, Vladislav Karamfilov said during his...
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Employers’ organizations will be represented in three presidential councils, said President of Bulgaria Rosen Plevneliev during his participation in the regular session of the Board of Directors of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry today. The Head of State confirmed that he will be the President of regions, will visit them on a regular basis and representatives of the regions will participate in the councils with the President. Before the business representatives President...
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Representatives of AIMEN Technology Center visited BCCI to present their services and experience in the field of EU projects. Mr. Joaquin Gomez, Commercial Director of AIMEN Technology Center made a short presentation of the technology center and discussed areas for possible future cooperation with Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov, President of BCCI and Mr. Dimitar Pampoulov, Chairman of the Spanish – Bulgarian Business Council. AIMEN Technology Center is a private technology center which...
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Tsvetan Simeonov, President of BCCI and Dimitar Pampoulov, Chairman of the Bulgarian - Spanish Business Council met with representatives of the Spanish law firm Martinez - Echevarría, Perez & Ferrero. In 2004 the Spanish company opened a Representative Office in Bulgaria, which currently employs 10 legal experts. The law firm Martinez - Echevarría, Perez & Ferrero mainly assists Spanish investors in the field of corporate, banking and European law. Mr....
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry will provide assistance for promotion of the economic relations between the European Union and the developing Indian market. For this purpose a European Business and Technology Center was set up in India. The project is implemented by the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry – EUROCHAMBRES, co-funded by the European Commission and was initiated three years ago. Its purpose is engaging and assisting EU SMEs to better...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry prepared and published the brochure “Fairs and Exhibitions in South East Europe – 2012”. The publication contains information in English about the organizers of trade and professional exhibitions in South East Europe, dates, events and nomenclature. The brochure “Fairs and Exhibitions in South East Europe – 2012” was produced with the assistance of a joint project of the Association of German Chambers...
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The Innovation Council with BCCI discussed at a round table the draft-bill on innovations, drafted per request of the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism. Over 40 renowned representatives of the business, scientific and academic circles took part in the discussion. In his welcoming remarks the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov emphasized the crucial role of innovations for the development of Bulgarian business, as well as of BCCI’s support and encouragement. According to...
Full textFebuary
On 29 February 2012, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Konstantin Dimitrov met with the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. Mr. Dimitrov is the future Ambassador of our country to the United Kingdom. Mr. Simeonov expressed BCCI’s support of the efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to economize diplomacy. During the meeting various options for cooperation were discussed in order to promote business contracts between the two countries. Tsvetan Simeonov presented the...
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The President of BCCI attended as a special guest the fifth regular general assembly of the Turkish – Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bulgaria, which was held on 29 February 2012. Mr. Simeonov addressed the participants and thanked the joint chamber, which despite the difficult economic situation has remained an important factor for preserving the image of Turkish business in Bulgaria. The regular exchange of information and the multiple joint initiatives are crucial for...
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In view of the European Council of 1-2 March, EUROCHAMBRES presented specific recommendations to Heads of State and Government, relating to five policy areas of great significance to the business community. “Based on Chambers’ experience, I believe that the delivery of these recommendations would provide a valuable boost to the business community and consequently contribute to Europe’s economic recovery,” said Alessandro Barberis, President of...
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The 19th international specialized exhibition and seminar SAFETY & SECURITY 2012 was opened. For the second consecutive year the event was organized by BCCI – “Centre for vocational training, translations, consultations and company services” EOOD in cooperation with Bulgarreklama Agency. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov welcomed the exhibitors. He said that the exhibition is a great example of successful public-private partnership. Private companies, state...
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The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tsvetan Simeonov participated in the international discussion “Public Private Partnership with the Municipalities”. The event was held under the auspices of the Vice President of the Republic of Bulgaria Mrs. Margarita Popova, organized by the National Association of Municipal Clerks in Bulgaria and the Hanns Seidel Foundation. According to the President of BCCI the fact that the discussion of public private...
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On 24 February 2012 at BCCI a business seminar on theme “Malawi – opportunities for trade, tourism and investment” was held. The event was opened by the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. Malawi is famous for the production and export of agricultural products, and Bulgaria is experienced in processing such products, Mr. Simeonov noted. According to him the abundant natural resources in Malawi provide a new opportunity for Bulgarian investors. The Ambassador...
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The complicated situation which occurred in our country in the end of January to mid February this year, created serious difficulties for companies which supply raw materials for manufacturing processes, transport goods, perform construction-assembly works, etc. Border checkpoints were also closed. BCCI has received multiple requests by companies to issue certificates verifying the emergency situation, which would be presented before their partners and relieve them of...
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On 21 February 2012 at BCCI, information meeting was held to present the current status of the Israeli economy. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov opened the meeting and said that Israel is a reliable partner of our country but there is more to be done to expand trade between the two countries. BCCI jointly with the Embassy of Israel and the Bulgarian – Israel Chamber of Commerce and Industry will continue to inform Bulgarian companies interested in cooperation with Israeli...
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The annual GS1 Global Forum ended in Brussels. Once again the forum gave stage for a meeting of experts, various representatives of the supply chain – manufacturers, suppliers, retailers. Representatives of transport companies, the customs authorities, local and international regulatory bodies, software developers and suppliers of hardware and, last but not least, representatives of the national GS1 organizations worldwide, participated in the discussions. They shared experience...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov had a work meeting with Svetlana Lomeva, Director of Sofia Development Association and Sevdalina Voynova, Program Director in Sofia Municipality. The positive cooperation with the management of Sofia Municipality, where most of the companies – members of BCCI are situated, was noted. Last year due to the assistance of the Mayor of Sofia Yordanka Fandakova and the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov, the collection of fees improved as...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with Bertolt Daems, President of Junior Chamber International (JCI), Magdalina Zlateva – National President and Ivaylo Nikolov – Secretary General of JCI Bulgaria. The business relations between BCCI and JCI at local and international level were discussed. Opportunities for cooperation were considered, as well as the possibility to sign a memorandum of understanding. BCCI intends to organize a series of trainings with lecturers...
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Over the years BCCI has remained the most zealous and long-standing supporter of the idea “Interactive practical training”, we must remember the history of the high school, said the Director of the National Trade and Banking High School Mrs. Emilia Ivanova who opened the 13th Traditional Fair dedicated to the 99 anniversary of the high school. Learning units and stands presenting trade and banking practices are situated in Hall 5 of Inter Expo Center. The award ceremony...
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The programme is designed to encourage companies not only to remain in the light sector of economy, but also to really benefit from “standing in the light”, said Tsvetan Simeonov to the participants. The topics covered in the seminar programme include both issues concerning workers and matters related to employers. The President of BCCI reminded that the lack of trained qualified specialists, meeting the needs of employers and the production processes, is a serious problem...
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On 17 February 2012, the General Assembly of the Council of Sectorial Organizations with BCCI adopted the Report on the activity of the Council in 2011 and the Work Programme for 2012. A new Bureau of the Council was elected with members: - President – Lachezar Iskrov, member of the Executive Council of BCCI responsible for the cooperation with sectorial organizations and former President of National Real Estate Association; - Vice-Presidents – Mariana Kukusheva,...
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Two business delegations from Taiwan will visit our country in May and June this year, the representatives of Taipei Representative Office in Greece also responsible for Bulgaria, announced during their meeting at BCCI. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simenov and the Vice-President Georgi Stoev exchanged ideas for closer economic cooperation with Agnes Hwa-Yue Chen, Representative and C.J. Lo, Director of Economic Division of the Representative Office. Litien Chen, Director of...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry organizes jointly with the Embassy of the Republic of Malawi in Berlin a business seminar on theme “Malawi – trade, tourism and investment opportunities”, which will take place on 24 February 2012, at 10:00 a.m. at BCCI, 9 Iskar Str., Sofia. The economic environment, business conditions and investment opportunities in Malawi will be presented. The country’s economy relies mainly on agriculture, which produces...
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The Spanish – Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism extends an invitation to Bulgarian companies to visit IMEX-IMPULSO EXTERIOR. The exhibition will take place on 25 and 26 April 2012 in Madrid. Victor Zozaya, President of the Spanish – Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism in Madrid, Maya Stanilova, Honorary President of the Chamber and Dimitar Pampulov, President of the Bulgarian-Spanish Business Council with BCCI visited the Chamber....
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The Understanding China training is a highly targeted programme developed according to the needs of business representative organisations. The programme offers a unique mix of academic and practical courses on Chinese business and culture, organised in a flexible way to allow compatibility with the participants' professional life. The seminars will take place both in Europe and China and will be accompanied by a variety of practical and social activities, such as business plan...
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BCCI organizes an information meeting with the participation of the charge d'affaires of the Embassy of Israel in Sofia, Mr. David Cohen WHEN: February 21st , Tuesday, 2012., at 14.30h. WHERE: BCCI building, Hall B, 1st floor. Mr.Cohen will present the economic situation in Israel and the upcoming 18th International Agricultural Exhibition Agritech, which will be held in Tel Aviv from 15th to 17th May...
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BCCI in conjunction with the Association for Development of Business and Cultural Relations between the Republic of India and the Republic of Bulgaria and together with OINORAMA Wine consulting & Business solutions are organizing a forum entitled "Bulgarian wine on the Indian market – opportunities, perspectives and financing" on 23rd February 2012, at 10.00 a.m. in BCCI Hall A. The forum will be attended by more than 30 Bulgarian wine producers,...
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The GS1 Global Forum plenary sessions are under way in Brussels today when discussions center on electronic commerce and electronic invoicing, mobile commerce, application of radio frequency technology (RFID) and other advanced practices presented by the national organizations. Data evaluation of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) was presented during a session dedicated to combat against counterfeits, reporting that in 2008 the European economy...
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“Eight percent of the products in world trade are counterfeit, and the role of GS1 will be crucial for stabilization, implementation of effective systems for tracking and combat against counterfeiting,” said Tsvetan Simeonov, BCCI President and Chairman of the Bureau of the GS1 Bulgaria Council. The plenary sessions of the GS1 Global Forum are under way in Brussels with the participation of a five-member delegation from GS1 Bulgaria. According to a research presented at...
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Today in Brussels the annual GS1 Global Forum with theme “Driving momentum together” was opened. More than 535 representatives of 90 national GS1 organizations, including GS1 Bulgaria will discuss for three days the organization’s strategy and will exchange ideas and information on innovation and best practices. At the forum opening Miguel Lopera, President of GS1 presented the organization’s vision for the following years. He underlined the key word...
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The initial constituent meeting of the Bulgaria – Qatar Business Council (BQBC) with BCCI was held on 9 February 2012 at the Chamber. The idea for the establishment of the business council originated and was first discussed during the visit of the Bulgarian business delegation to Qatar in 2007. The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov thanked Asparouh Karastoyanov for his efforts and professional contacts used for the realisation of the idea. Eight founder-companies presented...
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In connection with the requests by companies constantly submitted to BCCI for issuance of certificates verifying the disastrous situation, to be presented before their partners relieving them of responsibility in case of delays in the execution of trade contracts, we would like to inform you that. The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry issues such certificates, based on official documents issued by independent institutions (ministries, municipal authorities, etc.) and...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry renewed its meeting with representatives of the regional chambers of commerce and industry. Today the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with the Mayor of Pernik Ms. Rositza Yanakieva to discuss the development of the business environment in the region in 2012. The need to expand cooperation with the local CCI for management and participation in cross-border cooperation projects was considered. The meeting was organized at...
Full textBCCI believes that at this stage the usefulness of the tripartite dialogue has been compromised
- 09-02-2012
The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov addressed in a letter the Chairman of the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation – Mr. Simeon Djankov, the President of BICA, the Executive President of BIA “Union of the Bulgarian Business” and the Presidents of the Bulgarian Union of Private Entrepreneurs “Vuzrazdane”, the Union for Business Initiative, CEIBG and the Presidents of the Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria and Confederation of...
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with the Commercial Counselor at the U.S. Commercial Service in Sofia Stanislava Dimitrova. At the meeting, held on 8 February 2012, opinions and information were exchanged on the possibilities to expand cooperation between Bulgaria and the USA in the present economic conditions and in the context of the financial crisis. Mr. Simeonov emphasized the opportunity more American companies to take part in fairs and exhibitions in Bulgaria. He shared...
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New project “CONNECTION” – Centre for Exchange of Information on Cross-border Economic Cooperation, with the participation of BCCI as a partner, was presented at a press-conference held at the Chamber on 7 February 2012. The project is funded from the European Union under the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) Cross-border Cooperation Bulgaria – Serbia. Participants in the project are the Centre for Development of Jablanica and Pcinja Districts in...
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In the second quarter of the year stricter control on the import of goods is expected to be introduced in Iraq for the entire territory of the country, said Mr. Saad Taha, Director of the Association for Friendship Kurdistan – Bulgaria at a meeting with the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. Specific initiatives aimed at finding reliable Bulgarian suppliers of goods and consumables for the region were discussed. Mr. Taha provided the BCCI Libraby with current economic...
Full textBCCI and Haskovo CCI Cancel Meetings with the Business and Celebration of the Vine-grower’s Day
- 07-02-2012
In connection with the tragic events which took place in municipality Harmanli and the declared national day of mourning, the Presidents of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tsvetan Simeonov and of Haskovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry Yancho Yanev decided to call off this year’s meetings with the business and traditional celebration of the Vine-grower’s Day. Part of the funds intended for the traditional event will be redirected to the fundraising...
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Representatives of the management of the North American – Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce (NABCC) visited BCCI and met with its President Tsvetan Simeonov. Emil Dimitroff – Executive Director, Ivan Boyadzhiev – Director for Bulgaria, and Reneta Denkova – Marketing and PR Manager briefly presented the statute and activity of NABCC. The chamber was established in 1999 in Sacramento, California and in 2002 the local offices in Bulgaria were set up. NABCC...
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With regard to the expansion of the cooperation between the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Gallery Art Visa Bulgaria, the President of the Chamber received the picture “Autumn sky” of the artist Galya Bukova by the curator Maria Lyubenova. “I hope the Gallery, which has been situated at the foyer for the public of BCCI for an year now, will continue to delight its fans and each new exhibition will be a new meeting between the representatives of the...
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H.E. Guillermo Salvador Azrak attended BCCI. The visit was initiated by Ambassador Azrak who expressed content with the continuing growth of bilateral trade and the existing development potential. During the meeting the increasing interest of Argentinean companies to participate in fairs and exhibitions in our country was noted. The parties agreed to cooperate for the organization of a presentation of Argentinean investment and trade opportunities in the second half of the year, in...
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At a meeting with Asparuh Karastoyanov, member of the Board of Directors of BCCI, the management of the Chamber discussed possible assistance for the successful participation of Bulgarian companies in the National Exhibition of Bulgaria in Qatar, which will take place in the period 13 – 15 March 2012. As BCCI already informed its members, the exhibition is organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism through the Bulgarian...
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Edward Schwarz, representative of the partnership project between the chambers from the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA) and the Association of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) met with the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. Future initiatives in the CEFTA region were discussed. BCCI is an active partner of the project and in 2011 hosted two business events and participated in the drawing-up of the institutional documents for establishment of the Arbitration...
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The proposed amendments to the Investment Promotion Act are targeted in three main directions: including newly created jobs as an independent criterion for certification of projects; reimbursing employers for the expenses made for social securities over a specific period of time; and granting more powers to the local authorities for investment promotion. The motives for the changes were presented by the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism and Invest Bulgaria Agency at a discussion,...
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The Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry (Eurochambres) expressed its content with the EU Summit conclusions on growth and jobs, adopted at the last EU Summit meeting held on 30 January this year in Brussels. The adopted measures suggest that European governments are finally prepared to instigate reforms. The proposal to use the EU budget to leverage European Investment Bank financing capacity and thus enhance the capacity of banks to lend to small...
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Prof. Viktor Arhipov, member of the Board of Directors of the Business Council with the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) visited BCCI and met with the President of the Chamber Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov, who is a member of the Board of Directors of the Business Council with BSEC. Future initiatives of the Business Council were discussed. During the meeting the responsibility of Bulgaria, as a founding country of BSEC and an EU member-state, for assisting the...
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The Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa H.E. Sheila Camerer visited BCCI to introduce the newly appointed Consul and Political and Economic Advisor Boiki Motloung to the management of the Chamber. During the meeting, the significant growth of trade turnover between Bulgaria and the Republic of South Africa was noted. In the first ten months of 2011 it amounted to USD 109.2 million. Bulgarian exports also increased significantly in comparison to previous periods. Last year...
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The representation of the European Commission in Bulgaria and the Center for Economic Development (CED) organized a conference today on theme: “5 years EU membership of Bulgaria and competitiveness of the Bulgarian economy” on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of Bulgaria’s EU accession in the context of the economic recovery of Europe. The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark in our country H.E. Kaare Janson, the Minister of European Funds Management Tomislav...
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The role of private enforcement agents may be viewed as an important anti-crisis instrument. When the economy is booming, creditors are often more tolerant and can afford to wait their debtors for a month or two, or even a year. However, in the conditions of economic and financial crisis quick and timely debt collection is often a matter of survival to some creditors. Therefore, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry will continue to support the efforts of the Bulgarian Chamber...
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EU SME Center in Beijing offers free consultations, market research, data base of experts and trainings to European small and medium-sized enterprises. This became clear during a seminar on “How to do business in China – challenges and opportunities for SMEs” held at BCCI. The seminar was opened by Vasil Todorov, Secretary General of BCCI. He noted that despite the crisis Asian markets have maintained their economic growth and export potential. Trade turnover...
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As part of his working visit to Marseille, France the President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tsvetan Simeonov visited a company specialized in production and distribution of sports goods. Suitable conditions to practice over 50 sports are provided in sports centers of the company located across France and in other European countries. Bulgaria also needs such services, because mass sports in out country are not well developed yet and the presence of such a company...
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The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry expresses its content with the significant progress achieved in simplifying the Bulgarian entry regime with the latest Resolution of the Council of Ministers of 25 January 2012 on eased regime for holders of Schengen visas. This is the first step of a longer series of actions aimed at facilitating the business’s access to the Bulgarian market and goods. The decision comes in fulfillment of the promise of the Minister of...
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On 23 January 2012, H.E. Mrs. Pamela Deen, Ambassador of Sri Lanka, visited BCCI and met with the President of the Chamber Tsvetan Simeonov. Ambassador Deen presented her work and noted that Sri Lanka is the second fastest growing economy in Asia. GDP grew by 8.3% in 2011 and the expectations for this year are for a growth within 8%. FDI in the country in 2011 amounted to USD 1 billion, which is 7% higher than the previous year. The services sector, especially tourism, is...
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At BCCI a meeting was held between the President of the Chamber Tsvetan Simeonov and Mr. Lamine Toure, Charge d’Affairs a.i. of the Embassy of the Republic of Guinea in Belgrade, who is also responsible for Bulgaria. Mr. Toure presented investment opportunities in Guinea, noting that Bulgaria was the first country in the world to recognize Guinea’s independence back in 1958. He explained that the country is abundant in natural resources. About 80 % of the country’s profits...
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The strike at mines “Mini Maritsa-Iztok” EAD was declared at an end yesterday with a signed agreement between representatives of the workers and the company’s management. The strike and the related circumstances evoke reflections on the sanctions for breach of contract by supplier-companies. With regard to this, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry would like to remind companies that it issues Force-Majeure Certificates for settlement of their relations with...
Full textWe will take all possible measures to seek protection of our interests in the employer field
- 20-01-2012
As you are already aware, on 19 January 2012, mainly with the votes of the MPs from the Parliamentary Group of GERB and independent MPs, the presidential veto on the amendments to the Labour Code, adopted in December 2011 regulating the new criteria for representativeness of the national employers’ organizations, was rejected. The adopted amendments introduce a restriction that organizations engaged in activities assigned to them by law or some enactment cannot be recognized as...
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The President of BCCI, Tsvetan Simeonov met with representatives of the Embassy of the United States in Sofia – Senior Commercial Officer Barbara Lapini and Deputy Chief of Political and Economic Section Seiji Shiratori. At the meeting, held on 19 January 2012, issues related to proposals for improvement of the Public Procurement Act were discussed. Another topic of mutual interest was energy efficiency as an important factor for Bulgarian business and society. Multiple...
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On 19 January 2012 at BCCI, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Vienna Economic Forum signed Memorandum of Understanding. The document was signed by the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov and Dr. Elena Kircheva, Secretary General of the Forum. According to the agreement the two organizations will unite their efforts to expand their networks and activities, will cooperate in the organization and holding of economic forums, will exchange economic information and will act...
Full textAustria’s experience in radio frequency identification creates added value for industry and trade
- 17-01-2012
On 16 January 2012, Bulgarian delegation visited the office of GS1 Austria as part of the mentorship program between GS1 Austria and GS1 Bulgaria. The structure of the national organization GS1 Austria was presented at the meeting together with the structure of its members, grouped by sectors and main activities in the various GS1 directions. The use of global GS1 identification numbers (GLN and GTIN) for waste management in industry and trade enjoyed huge interest. Significant...
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The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov met with the Secretary General of the Arbitration Court at Kosovo Chamber of Commerce Ms. Anjeze Gojani. The institution was established only just last year and learns from the experience of the Arbitration Court at BCCI. In May last year, the President of the Arbitration Court at BCCI Mr. Silvi Chernev helped draw up the institutional documents for the Arbitration Court in Kosovo. Mr. Simeonov...
Full textGS1 Bulgaria Council Will Draw from Austria’s Experience in Radio Frequency Identification
- 16-01-2012
Within the mentorship programme, representatives of GS1 Bulgaria will visit GS1 Austria. Representatives of the business, supply chains, and manufacturers of pharmaceutical and chemical products will take part in the delegation led by Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov, President of BCCI and Chairman of the GS1 Bulgaria Council with BCCI. The aim of the visit is for both countries to share experience in the implementation of GS1 standards, as well as to exchange positive practices in their...
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The edition is one of its kind in our country and has proven its right of existence over the years. It is a reference book of business information for every company, because fairs and exhibitions have made a reputation of reliable marketing tool, which combines detailed presentation of the company with expert technical presentation of the products and direct relationship with consumers. The information in the Calendar is presented in Bulgarian and English, thus serving as an...
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At the invitation of the American Chamber of Commerce in Bulgaria, the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov participated in a meeting with the Prime Minister Boyko Borisov and Ministers on topic “Stimuli for Economic Growth, New Technologies and Research & Development in Bulgaria in 2012”. Nearly 250 representatives of the business circles and diplomatic corps took part in the
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11 January 2012 - Speech of Tsvetan Simeonov, BCCI President before the Labour and Social Policy Committee regarding Item 1. Presentation, discussion and voting of Decree No. 304 from 27 December 2011 of the President of the Republic of Bulgaria, received in the National Assembly on 28.12.2011 for returning for discussion of the Law on amendment and supplement to the Labour Code, adopted by the National Assembly on 15.12.2011 and the accompanying motives. Thank you for the...
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The InvestBulgaria Agency bestowed its annual “Investor of the Year 2011” awards in five categories. At an official ceremony in Sheraton Hotel, Sofia the following companies were awarded: Lufthansa Technik Sofia in the asset investment category for large companies, Amer Sports Bulgaria in the asset investment category for small and medium-sized enterprises, HP Bulgaria in the category for creating high-added value jobs, Asarel Medet Jsc. in the category green investment of the...
Full textBCCI Representative in South Africa outlined the potential areas for bilateral cooperation
- 11-01-2012
Raycho Iliev, BCCI’s representative in the Republic of South Africa met with Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov, President of the Chamber. He presented his mission’s results achieved last year, as well as the economic situation in Africa. Opportunities to expand trade and economic relations between the two countries were discussed. Mr. Iliev highlighted the potential of South Africa to set up hydroelectric power plants. The Republic of South Africa has a long-term programme for reduction of...
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On 10 January 2012 at BCCI, a meeting of the EU Club with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry was held. The occasion for the meeting was the presentation of the 7th presidency of the Council of the European Union by the Kingdom of Denmark. The meeting was opened by the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov. 14 ambassadors and 17 commercial counselors at Bulgarian diplomatic missions abroad took part in the first meeting of the EU Club for 2012. The Minister of EU Funds...
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Art Visa Gallery Bulgaria once again has provoked art lovers with its new exhibition “Symbols of Happiness”. The artists Alexandrina Karadjova, Pavel Mitkov and the French artist Mary-Chantal Biela combine various techniques – lithography, dry pastel, acrylic and oil painting to draw attention to the symbols and traditions of several generations and nationalities. The exhibition consists of 25 works, which excite the imagination of visitors with the play of light and bright...
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At a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikolay Mladenov, the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov discussed issues related to the possibility to support the members of the Chamber on the basis of cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria. Mr. Simeonov stressed out that the business relies on better relations between diplomacy and economy. Bulgarian companies are in constant need of information, assistance or advice in order to do business abroad....
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The President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with the archeologist Diana Dimitrova, Head of the Initiative Committee “Monument of Archeologist Kitov”. The realization of the project now depends only on the availability of funds. Around BGN 30 thousand are necessary for the erection of the monument, and until now almost BGN 5000 were raised. The Chamber undertook through its website and in accordance with the established order to distribute the information that a...
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At the second bilateral meeting of the social partners, held at the Bulgarian Industrial Association, the discussion of proposals to the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation for amendments in the Social Insurance Code continued. Representatives of BIA, CITUB, and the Union for Economic Initiative took part in the meeting. The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry was represented in the debates by the President of the Chamber Tsvetan Simeonov, the Secretary General Vasil...
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On 3rd January 2012, the President of BCCI Tsvetan Simeonov met with Mrs. Zinaida Zlatanova, Head of the Representation Office of the European Commission in Bulgaria. The meeting was focused on discussing the possibilities for participation of BCCI in the national debate on Europe 2020 Strategy, the Lisbon Treaty and the new financial framework of the European Union. Mrs. Zlatanova proposed the Chamber and the Representation to jointly organize a conference with the participation...
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