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In 2025, four admissions will be opened under the Strategic Plan, with a total budget of more than BGN 860 M, which will be aimed at upgrading agricultural holdings and investments in the processing of agricultural products. This was announced by Minister of Agriculture and Food Dr Georgi Tahov at the opening of the international food exhibitions Meatmania, The Milk Route, Bulpek, Interfood & Drink and Wine & Spirits Show at the Inter Expo Center.

Minister Tahov noted that, these receptions are expected to contribute to the improving of the infrastructure on farms and stimulate investment in the manufacturing industry.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food welcomed Bulgarian and foreign companies from the food industry participating in the exhibition in Sofia. "When tradition meets innovation - this is when we have stability in our food security," Minister Tahov said. He assured the participants in the exhibitions that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food would continue to provide institutional support to food production and processing.

Minister Tahov pointed out that the food industry is a sustainable sector, with around 6,000 enterprises operating therein, employing nearly 90,000 people. The gross value added for the Food and Beverages Divisions together amounted to more than EUR 1,600,000,000 and grew by nearly 18% compared to the previous year. The Minister of Agriculture and Food also commented on the contribution of the sector to preserving the health and good nutrition of the Bulgarian population and wished the participants a successful presentation and the establishment of new partnerships.

Minister Tahov told the media that, the balance of BGN 125 M of the Ukrainian aid for farmers will be paid within the deadline - 30 November 2024. He said that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food proposes that the 2025 budget should include a budget for support to farms under the Temporary Crisis Framework for Ukraine in the amount of BGN 650 M, to be divided into two payments. I have asked the Council of Ministers for the continuation of this measure, he clarified.

Referring to proposals by industry organisations relating to VAT on breads, Minister Tahov said: "Currently, the budget framework is open and proposals can be given, but the last topic regarding tax rates and fiscal measures has to go through the National Assembly."

The opening of the international exhibitions was also attended by the Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Dr David Sukalinski, the Ambassador of Italy Giuseppina Zarra, the US Ambassador Kenneth Merten, the Ambassador of Japan Hisashi Michigami, the Executive Director of State Fund "Agriculture" Iva Ivanova, the Executive Director of Bulgarian Food Safety Agency Svetlozar Patarinski, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Bulgarian Industrial Association Dobri Mitrev, chairpersons of branch organisations from the food sector.

International food exhibitions make Sofia a key destination for businesses in the food sector. This year, more than 500 exhibitors from three continents - Europe, North America and Asia - are taking part. From 13- 16 November, at the Inter Expo Center, the teams of companies from Bulgaria, Germany, Italy, Spain, Czech Republic, Poland, Romania, Ukraine, Turkey, Greece, USA, Japan, Vietnam, and others will present products, innovations, software, ideas and visions.

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