Bulgarian Association of Travel Agencies
Representatives of the tourism industry, led by the Chairman of the Bulgarian Association of Travel Agencies (BATA), Odisei Spasov, held a working meeting with the caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gyurov and the Minister of Tourism Irena Georgieva. The purpose of the meeting was to present the current challenges facing the sector as a result of the crisis in the Middle East and to propose concrete measures aimed at stabilizing the tourism business.
During the meeting, BATA Chairman Odisei Spasov presented a detailed analysis of the economic factors placing significant pressure on tour operators and travel agencies. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has led to:
a sharp increase in fuel, transport, and logistics costs;
rising expenses for insurance and security measures;
heightened uncertainty regarding travel to the region and neighboring countries;
mass cancellations and changes to already planned trips;
inability for tour operators to adjust pre‑agreed prices;
serious risks to the liquidity of tourism companies;
Spasov emphasized that without immediate intervention, the sector faces the real danger of substantial financial losses.
BATA presented a comprehensive package of urgent measures designed to mitigate the negative impact of the crisis.
Temporary compensation for increased transport, fuel, and insurance costs.
A support mechanism for tour operators working with fixed prices that cannot be adjusted for clients.
Compensation for transport companies when fuel prices exceed €1.60 per liter.
Spasov highlighted that prices negotiated last year with foreign partners for the upcoming summer season were calculated based on significantly lower fuel costs. Due to the current geopolitical situation, foreign partners refuse to accept price increases, placing Bulgarian tour operators in a highly vulnerable position.
Options for postponing or restructuring tax obligations.
Simplified procedures for VAT refunds in cases of cancellations.
Reintroduction of the reduced 9% VAT rate for tour operator margin schemes and transport services, as applied during the COVID period.
Reduced administrative burden for renewing registrations and insurance policies.
Recommendations to banks to offer flexible credit terms, including grace periods for affected companies.
Review of requirements for “Tour Operator Liability” insurance during international crises.
Temporary easing of conditions for renewing insurance policies.
Joint initiatives between the state and the industry to encourage travel within Bulgaria.
Continuous communication between the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, airlines, and industry organizations.
Timely information on high‑risk destinations and travel recommendations for tourists.
BATA also presented a key legislative proposal to amend Article 25 of the Law on Measures and Actions During a State of Emergency. The current crisis clearly demonstrates that the article is inapplicable in cases of international conflict, despite its direct impact on Bulgarian tourists and tour operators.
BATA proposes expanding the scope of Article 25 so that it applies in cases of:
armed conflicts inside or outside Bulgaria
terrorist attacks
natural disasters
epidemics and health crises in other countries
situations in which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues a “Do Not Travel” or “Leave Immediately” advisory
This amendment would allow for the lawful postponement of trips, issuance of vouchers, extension of refund deadlines, and prevention of large‑scale financial losses for tour operators.
BATA expresses its appreciation to caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gyurov and Minister of Tourism Irena Georgieva for the constructive dialogue and willingness to work together.
As a representative of a significant portion of the tourism industry, BATA believes that timely and adequate measures are essential to stabilize the sector during this period of international crisis.
The association remains ready to participate in working groups, expert discussions, and the development of concrete mechanisms to support the tourism industry.
