Economic Activities in Bulgaria: Primary, Secondary, Tertiary, and Quaternary

Bulgaria, with a population of 6,437,360 (as of end-2024, NSI), is ranked 105th in the world, just behind Serbia. Located in Southeast Europe, it covers 111,000 square kilometers, ranking 99th globally, just below Liberia.

Bulgaria’s economic position in 2024 showcases a GDP of approximately $113.34 billion, according to World Bank data. The GDP per capita for Bulgaria in 2024 is $17,596, reflecting sustained growth compared to prior years.

Bulgaria’s economy has shown consistent improvement, driven by its integration into European supply chains, strong export performance, and a growing services sector.

What are the economic activities of Bulgaria?

• Primary activities: 2.07% of GDP (2024).
• Secondary activities: 22.49% of GDP (2024).
• Tertiary activities: 62.58% of GDP (2024).

Primary Sector of Bulgaria

Bulgaria’s primary sector, particularly its agricultural activities, thrives due to its favorable climate and abundant natural resources. With 46.49% of the country’s land dedicated to agriculture, Bulgaria produces a diverse range of crops and animal products. Wheat, maize, sunflower seeds, milk, barley, rapeseed, potatoes, grapes, tomatoes, and chicken are among the top agricultural products.

Contributing approximately 2.07% to GDP as of 2024, agriculture remains a meaningful part of Bulgaria’s economy. The variety of crops and animal products sustains the agricultural sector and provides essential resources for the country’s food security and export industry.

The country’s diverse geology provides a rich array of natural resources, including bauxite, copper, lead, zinc, coal, timber, and arable land. These resources play a crucial role in driving the economy through mining, forestry, and agriculture, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and employment opportunities.In addition to its mineral resources, Bulgaria also engages in oil production, with an output of around 1,000 barrels per day. Despite ranking 67th globally in oil production, the country holds reserves of 15,000,000 barrels, representing just 0.1% of the world’s total reserves.Bulgaria’s natural gas production in 2020 reached 79 million m³, ranking 84th in the world. This gas economic activity contributes to the country’s GDP and employment opportunities, further enhancing its economic stability and growth.

Secondary Sector of Bulgaria

What is the secondary sector or what are secondary activities?The secondary sector comprises industries that transform raw materials from primary activities into finished products for consumption. In Bulgaria, key industrial products include electricity, gas, water, food, beverages, tobacco, machinery, automotive parts, base metals, chemical products, coke, refined petroleum, nuclear fuel, and outsourcing centers.Manufactures play a crucial role in Bulgaria’s total exports, accounting for 55.02% in 2023. This highlights their significant contribution to the country’s economic growth and global trade competitiveness.

Tertiary sector of Bulgaria

What is the tertiary sector or what are tertiary activities?The tertiary sector in Bulgaria encompasses various services that enhance productivity and meet needs through intangible goods like knowledge and expertise. Key activities include healthcare, education, banking, tourism, transportation, and telecommunications. These sectors contribute significantly to Bulgaria’s economy by providing essential services to both consumers and businesses.Notably, Bulgaria’s economy heavily relies on tourism, contributing significantly to its GDP. With approximately 13.1 million international visitor arrivals recorded in 2024 (a record high), the industry continues to thrive. The Black Sea resorts like Sunny Beach and the historic town of Nessebar are among the most popular destinations, attracting visitors worldwide.Another example of tertiary economic activity is the mobile cellular sector, with approximately 8 million subscriptions, fostering technological growth. This connectivity enhances digital services, driving innovation and economic development.

Military Activities and Economic Sectors of Bulgaria

The military is a clear example of various economic activities working together. In the primary sector, resources are extracted for military use. The secondary sector involves the manufacturing of military equipment. The tertiary sector includes services provided by the military, while the quaternary sector focuses on military research and development. Finally, the quinary sector deals with high-level military decision-making and strategy.

In Bulgaria, military expenditure in 2024 reached approximately 2.149% of GDP, according to World Bank/SIPRI data, up from 1.50% in 2023, driven by NATO commitments and procurement programs including F-16 aircraft and Stryker IFVs. The active military force consists of 36,950 personnel.

Biggest company in Bulgaria

Which is the biggest company in Bulgaria? By revenue, Lukoil Neftochim Burgas (the largest oil refinery in the Balkans, located in Burgas) has historically been the largest company operating in Bulgaria, with turnover of approximately €4.7 billion in 2024. However, it is owned by the Russian Lukoil group (via Swiss subsidiary Litasco) and as of November 2025 has been placed under Bulgarian state administration following U.S. sanctions. Among domestically-owned companies, Eurohold Bulgaria is the largest holding group, with consolidated revenues of approximately BGN 2.81 billion (~€1.43 billion) in 2024, operating in energy and insurance across Southeast Europe.

International Trade of Bulgaria

Import Activities of Bulgaria

Bulgaria’s import activities in 2024 accounted for approximately 53.48% of GDP, according to World Bank data, reflecting its integration into global supply chains.Bulgaria’s key import activities include crude petroleum, natural gas, copper ore, cars, and packaged medicine. Its main import partners are Germany (10%), Turkey (9%), Romania (7%), and Greece (6%).

Exports Activities of Bulgaria

Bulgaria’s export activities in 2024 reached approximately $46.6 billion, accounting for 55.81% of GDP, according to World Bank data. Exports play a crucial role in driving the country’s economy.Bulgaria’s export activities are diversified, with key partners including Germany (13.6%), Romania (9.2%), Italy (7.2%), Turkey (5.8%), and Greece (5.5%). The country exports refined petroleum, natural gas, garments, wheat, and refined copper.

Bulgaria economy challenges in 2025

In 2025, Bulgaria faces challenges related to energy security following the state takeover of the Lukoil Neftochim refinery, ongoing demographic decline, and the need for infrastructure modernization. The country’s gradual transition away from coal and its NATO defense spending commitments shape its economic outlook.

Sources

• World Bank: Bulgaria Country Data
• IMF: Bulgaria Country Profile
• CIA World Factbook: Bulgaria
• National Statistical Institute of Bulgaria (NSI)
• UN Comtrade Plus: Trade Flow

Last updated: June 20, 2026.