The rose and rose oil are a national symbol of Bulgaria and deserve targeted support and a special place in agricultural policy. This was stated by the Minister of Agriculture and Food, Plamen Abrovsky, during a meeting with representatives of the rose production sector. During the discussion, the main challenges facing the sector were addressed, including the high cost of production, the need for an up-to-date inventory of rose plantations, strengthening control over planting material, and opportunities for more effective market regulation.
Minister Abrovsky emphasized that after the adoption of the final framework of the state budget, it will become clear what opportunities for supporting the sector can be undertaken. "You will hardly find another minister who has spoken so much about roses during the EU Council of Ministers. I will do everything possible to ensure the sector is placed on a separate line with a separate budget," he stated. The Minister also informed that he defended the need for a more special treatment of Bulgarian rose production at the European level during the last Council meeting in Luxembourg and will continue to insist that the sector receives an independent place and adequate financial support.
The two sides also discussed the need to strengthen control over the rose oil market. The Minister of Agriculture noted that our country lacks a laboratory that can reliably distinguish synthetic products from natural rose oil, and assured that the Ministry will work toward introducing the necessary mechanisms for control and traceability. He also emphasized utilizing the capabilities of the Research Institute for Roses and Aromatic Plants.
"My task is to introduce clear rules and sustainable mechanisms that guarantee the development of the sector. If we manage to create a more predictable environment for producers through better regulation, effective control, and market transparency, we will be able to direct our efforts toward modernization, investments, and sustainable growth," Minister Abrovsky concluded.