The Ministry of Tourism held consultations with representatives of industry organizations, airport operators, and the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) regarding preparations for the summer season, in light of the complex geopolitical situation in the Middle East region. The tourism attachés of the Ministries of Tourism of Poland, Germany, and Turkey also participated in the negotiations. The discussions focused on security, consumer protection, and the stability of the country’s tourism sector.

"It is essential to maintain a clear and accurate understanding of enrollments, to consider and evaluate business recommendations, and to respond in a timely manner. Bulgaria must be positioned as a safe and predictable destination for the forthcoming summer season," Minister of Tourism Irena Georgieva stated at the beginning of the meeting. She emphasized that, in the prevailing dynamic international environment, our country has a real opportunity to establish itself as a preferred destination for tourism.

According to industry information, Bulgaria is presently maintaining stability, with a slight increase in reservations of approximately 1%, supported primarily by markets in Central and Eastern Europe. A positive trend is observed in family travel, with growth of approximately 7%, which indicates an opportunity for our country to further strengthen its positioning in this segment. Poland remains among the most stable markets. Bulgaria continues to rank among the leading destinations and to retain a competitive price advantage. Moreover, according to tour operators, the prevailing international situation creates additional opportunities for Bulgaria, particularly in comparison with destinations that are currently subject to heightened uncertainty. At the same time, pricing is under pressure as a result of increased transportation costs and a certain stagnation in bookings in recent weeks. Among the principal challenges in the tourism sector remains the shortage of labour. It was emphasized that there is currently no delay in the procedures for short-term employment; however, further facilitation of such processes remains necessary.

Industry representatives pointed out that domestic tourism will play a key role in stabilizing the season and recommended enhanced advertising efforts to encourage travel by Bulgarian tourists.

The participants in the meeting identified a series of measures to address the challenges highlighted by the industry, including conducting an information campaign targeted at consumers to raise awareness of the benefits, rights, and obligations associated with organized travel, and convening meetings with insurance-sector companies to develop insurance products providing broader coverage for risks arising during travel.

The Acting Chairman of the CPC, Alexander Kolyachev, stated: "We are cooperating effectively and remain in ongoing communication with the Ministry of Tourism." A campaign to raise awareness among consumers of organized travel, conducted jointly with the Ministry of Tourism, constitutes a useful measure, as we believe that the informed consumer is better protected.

In conclusion, the Minister of Tourism, Irena Georgieva, stated: "Against the backdrop of global uncertainty, Bulgaria is undertaking coordinated measures, agreed in advance between the competent institutions and the tourism industry, and is making a clear commitment to safety and quality in its tourism offerings for a successful summer season."