Government Accountability Clash: Bulgaria’s political parties are trading blows over the Rumen Radev Cabinet’s first 100 days, with GERB saying the “grace period” is over and the government must deliver results, while Democratic Bulgaria calls it a takeover of a failed governance model and Continue the Change argues the old political setup is being restored through appointments. Minimum Wage Outlook: Labour Minister Nataliya Efremova says the 2027 minimum wage will not stay at the current level, pointing to an agreed objective method with social partners. Capital Markets Sanctions: The SEC ordered capital market operators to cut correspondent banking and restrict dealings tied to Iran and North Korea, citing FATF risk updates. Consumer Prices Watch: Wholesale fruit and vegetable prices in Bulgaria fell overall in the week to Aug 14, with sharp drops in peppers and tomatoes, while some staples moved up. Transport & Industry: Škoda has delivered 20 electric trains to Bulgaria, entering service after authorisations, while Bulgaria’s EV uptake remains low despite a 62% jump in new fully electric registrations in 2025. Energy & Trade Risk: Black Sea security concerns continue as Russia-linked threats to maritime trade raise pressure on global food flows. Tourism Policy: Short-term rental apartments will be added to Bulgaria’s Unified Tourism Information System in 2027, alongside plans to steer tourism tax spending toward marketing and connectivity support.