Acting Minister of Tourism Evtim Miroshev touched on Bulgaria’s serious labor shortage, especially in the tourism sector, stressing that an estimated 27,000 workers are needed for the upcoming summer season. While acknowledging the presence of refugees and the unemployed, Miroshev stressed the seriousness of the labor shortage and urged the search for international avenues of employment. In response to the waning interest of European workers, Miroshev revealed plans to seek workers from South Asian countries such as Nepal and Bangladesh, due to recent changes in visa laws that allow longer stays.
The labor shortage has even affected vital services such as lifeguards, with Miroshev noting that there are no lifeguards on Black Sea beaches. This season, operators will operate under existing regulations and provide relief to beach owners. Although employers are ready to pay competitive wages, the labor shortage has increased costs, and wages for tourism workers are expected to increase by 20% this season. Miroshev guaranteed the cleanliness of the Black Sea and announced that he would cooperate with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications in the future to verify the water quality by taking samples.
As well as addressing labour and cleanliness issues, Miloshev also outlined measures to beef up security at the resort, with police officers from various European countries assisting local authorities. As part of a joint effort with the Ministry of the Interior, police presence will be stepped up to ensure safety. Miloshev also revealed the expected price range for beach amenities, predicting that deck chairs and parasols will cost between 8 and 10 levs for visitors.
