Bulgaria's Tourism Industry Struggles with Staff Shortages Despite Revenue Growth

Tourism in Bulgaria experienced a notable loss in its workforce during the peak summer season. Official figures from the National Statistical Institute (NSI) show that the sector shed 11.5% of its employees, while the overall economy saw a smaller decrease of 1% compared to the previous quarter. This decline in tourism employment occurred despite the sector being one of the fastest-growing in terms of salary increases, with the average gross wage rising by 18.2% year-on-year to BGN 1,495, the lowest average among industries.

Despite the workforce reduction, tourism's financial performance showed positive signs. In September, revenue from overnight stays grew by 14.8% year-on-year, reaching BGN 249.7 million. Of this, foreign tourists contributed BGN 157.1 million. When compared to pre-pandemic September 2019, however, revenues from foreign tourists were slightly lower, as they totaled BGN 166.7 million, with inflation having increased in the meantime.