site.btaTransport Sector Calls for Urgent Measures amid Energy Crisis

The transport sector is calling for urgent measures amid a deepening energy crisis, the press centre of the Chamber of the Bulgarian Road Hauliers (CBRH) said on Friday.

The CBRH said that together with other industry organizations, an official letter has been sent to the caretaker Prime Minister and the caretaker ministers of transport and finance, urging immediate and effective measures to support the sector.

The transport industry is facing serious challenges due to the complicated international situation and the significant rise in fuel prices. The sector is under heavy pressure, and the lack of timely support poses risks to the economy, the Chamber said.

The sector acknowledges the government’s stated intentions to take action, including the possibility of a moratorium on leasing payments and an increase in the budget under the toll system programme. However, there is currently no clarity on how these measures will be implemented. In the Chamber's view, these steps cannot serve as the main tool for supporting the sector.

The Chamber said that the primary and most urgent measure being proposed is the introduction of a “transport tax credit,” aimed at providing liquidity to companies. The idea involves creating a platform through which part of fuel expenses could be used to offset tax and social security liabilities.

The press release also stressed the need for targeted support for the bus sector, including non-subsidized routes and tourism-related transport, in order to prevent disruptions in transport connectivity and social tensions.

The Chamber warned that tensions in the sector are rising, with some transport companies already discussing protest actions, including suspending services and placing employees on unpaid leave.

They further noted that, according to industry data, Bulgarian hauliers are beginning to lose ground in the international market and are calling for urgent and adequate measures.