Bulgaria, Israel Seek to Expand Investment and Economic Cooperation
Jerusalem, 9 November, 2026 (TPS-IL) -- Sofia (BTA) – Opportunities to deepen bilateral investment and economic cooperation between Bulgaria and Israel were discussed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Investment and Industry Alexander Poulev and Israeli Ambassador to Bulgaria Yosi Levi Sfari, Bulgaria’s Economy Ministry said on Monday.
The talks focused on prospects for partnership in high technology, cybersecurity and innovation, as well as opportunities to promote bilateral investment and industrial cooperation.
“I can summarize our priorities in two main areas – digitalization and attracting foreign direct investment in high value-added activities. These are precisely the two areas we want to develop in order to accelerate this country’s economic growth,” Poulev said.
He stressed that better conditions have already been created for strategic investors and that more effective coordination has been ensured among the institutions involved in investment policy.
Poulev also highlighted the development of a new framework for public-private partnerships, designed to mobilize additional private capital for the modernization of Bulgaria’s economy and infrastructure.
“We cannot afford to wait two or three years for our public finances to recover. We must be creative and mobilize private capital,” the Minister said. He noted that the draft legislation had been prepared and was due to be presented to Parliament.
Poulev identified transport connectivity, energy infrastructure, digital technologies and cybersecurity as promising areas for cooperation with Israel.
“There is very strong political will to deepen cooperation with Israel,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
Ambassador Yosi Levi Sfari described Bulgaria as one of Israel’s best friends in the European Union and highlighted the stability of bilateral relations, based on shared values and a common history.
“We believe there are many more opportunities to develop relations between the two countries in various areas,” the Ambassador said.
He reported growing interest among Israeli investors in Bulgaria, citing specific investment intentions in various sectors. Both sides expressed their readiness to support the organization of business delegations and investment missions to promote bilateral partnership.
Trade between Bulgaria and Israel increased by 16.54%, from $258.7 million in 2024 to $301.5 million in 2025, according to the Economy Ministry.
Bulgaria continued to record a trade surplus, although this fell by 45.75%, from $105.8 million in 2024 to $57.4 million in 2025, due to a substantial increase in imports.
Investment rose gradually in 2025, from EUR 233.4 million ($261.2 million) in the first quarter to EUR 239.8 million ($268.3 million) in the third quarter, according to the Ministry.
