A month after Bulgaria received the green light to join the eurozone, all merchants are obliged to announce prices in leva and euros. This was explained in an interview with the Bulgarian National Radio by Deputy Minister of Economy Nikolay Pavlov.
He emphasized that the currency conversion must be according to the official fixed exchange rate - 1.95583 leva for one euro, and prices must be clearly indicated and no preference should be given to one currency over the other on the label of a given good or service.
The target date for the introduction of the common European currency is January 1 next year, and it is expected that by the summer there will be clarity on whether it will happen then.
"The Ministry of Economy and Industry is one of the most involved departments in the preparatory process for our country's accession to the eurozone. We participate in the Coordination Council for Preparation.
The obligations of traders are clearly regulated in the Law on the Introduction of the Euro".
The marking in both currencies must continue for 12 months after the date of the introduction of the euro in the country, Pavlov also pointed out. He advised traders not to rush into announcing prices in euros.
The state will guarantee compliance with the provisions of the law with all its levers, the deputy minister assured.
"The introduction of the euro itself cannot lead to inflation. The institutions will carry out targeted inspections to ensure that there are no incorrect trade practices".