Bulgaria’s real GDP grew 3 percent in 2015, mostly because of exports and low oil prices, according to estimates made by the European Commission. For 2016, the EC expects growth of just 2 percent, as other GDP drivers, such as the absorption of EU funds, weaken.
By 2017, however, GDP should rise again 2.4 percent thanks to strengthening domestic demand which should more than offset fading net exports. Negative inflation is being projected in 2016 but should turn positive in 2017, while the national deficit is now set to decrease gradually, according to the report.
