Statistical data

According to preliminary data of the National Statistical Institute in the third quarter of 2021, the number of newly built residential buildings was 838 and the newly built dwellings in them were 3 390. Compared to the third quarter of 2020 the buildings were by 61 less (or by 6.8%), and the newly built dwellings in them decreased by 533 or by 13.6%.

In October 2021, the survey shows an increase of the pessimism in consumers’ assessments and expectations in comparison with July. The total consumer confidence indicator decreases by 10.8 percentage points compared to its level 3 months ago, which is due to the decreased confidence among both rural and urban inhabitants - by 11.9 and 10.2 percentage points, respectively.

In the third quarter of 2021, the municipal authorities issued building permits for the construction of 1 846 residential buildings with 8 877 dwellings, 9 administrative buildings/offices and 1 183 other buildings. The construction of 1 357 residential buildings with 6 526 dwellings, 14 administrative buildings/offices and 575 other buildings were started.

According to the preliminary data in 2020 the total amount of expenditure on research and development activity (R&D) was 1 023.8 million BGN, and the personnel engaged in conducting research and experimental development amounted to 26 085 (in full-time equivalent).

In August 2021 compared to July 2021 an increase is reported for the production of: solid fuels - by 30.1%, liquefied petroleum gases - by 37.5%, unleaded motor gasoline - by 2.5%, transport diesel - by 14.7% and electricity - by 0.7%. No change for the production of natural gas.

In August 2021 compared to July 2021 an increase is reported for the deliveries of: solid fuels - by 30.3%, liquefied petroleum gases - by 17.1% and unleaded motor gasoline - by 2.0%. At the same time a decrease is reported for the deliveries of transport diesel - by 4.8%, natural gas - by 24.3% and electricity - by 0.8%.

Total Producer Price Index in September 2021 increased by 2.4% compared to the previous month and with 20.0% compared to the same month of 2020. Producer Price Index on Domestic Market in September 2021 increased by 3.1% compared to the previous month; compared to the same month of 2020 the domestic prices rose by 20.3%.

In October 2021, the total business climate indicator decreases by 2.3 percentage points compared to the previous month. More unfavourable business climate is registered in industry, retail trade and service sector, while in construction the indicator preserves its September level.

In October 2021, the National Statistical Institute conducted the monthly inquiry survey of the managers of accommodation establishments to gather accurate and timely information on the state and development of their businesses during the ensuing epidemic situation in the country.

In September 2021, in the conditions of the continuing epidemic situation, the number of the trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 579.2 thousand or by 4.2% above the registered in September 2020.

In September 2021, the number of arrivals of visitors from abroad to Bulgaria was 772.6 thousand or by 37.1% above in comparison with September 2020, as the transit was 45.5% (351.6 thousand) of all visits of foreigners in the country.

Main results from the short business survey amongst the non-financial enterprises, aiming at presenting information on the economic effects from the declared state of emergency and the ensuing epidemic situation in the country due to COVID-19.