The deputies banned unjustified price increases for goods and services

The deputies of the new 52nd National Assembly approved in the first reading amendments to the Competition Protection Act, which prohibit unjustified price increases for goods and services. The main goal is to cover more unfair trade practices, increasing their number from 13 to 33, as well as to introduce the concepts of "excessively high price" and jointly dominant position, where large chains maintain uniform prices and thus distort the market.

From "Progressive Bulgaria" clarified that the new measures aim to introduce clearer and more effective control mechanisms without putting pressure on businesses. It was noted that prices will not be regulated, only markups and market practices will be monitored. Yavor Gechev pointed out that the intention is to see whether there is a higher markup along the supply chain, without explicitly banning prices.

In the hall, those against the proposed law united in support of it, despite serious criticism. GERB announced they would propose shortening the implementation deadlines, and Alexander Ivanov from the party stated that support is given not out of desire, but out of necessity. DPS also supported the reforms, emphasizing that more and more Bulgarian citizens are deprived not only of clothes and shoes but also of basic food products. The party's representatives added that fighting high prices requires both short-term and long-term measures.

Criticism of the bill also arose due to technical omissions, but support remained solid, with the main goal being to protect consumers and strengthen market competition.

Source: Plovdiv24.bg