Gloomy outlook for Bulgarian textile and clothing sector

Bulgaria’s textile and clothing industry is one of the oldest in the country – and one of the largest employers. In recent years its exports have reached record levels, with around 90% destined for the EU market.

Textiles and clothing ranks in the top 10 export sectors, creating 11.5% of value added in industry and accounting for 8% of total exports in 2017. Over the past 10 years, labour productivity has grown 10%.

Following the accession of Bulgaria to the EU in 2007, a number of enterprises were modernised with the aid of European funds. And following the global financial crisis of 2008, many global fashion brands that produced clothing in China moved back to Bulgaria and other East European countries, where the production of garments became cheaper than the Far East.

For the full story, see the April 2019 edition of Textiles Eastern Europe. Not a subscriber? Sign up HERE