site.btaGERB Leader Borissov: Euro Rollout Campaign Aims to Calm Fears

The information campaign for the eurozone is very important due to ongoing attempts to frighten the public, GERB leader Boyko Borissov said on Saturday. Borissov spoke during a visit to Zvanartsi village, Kubrat municipality, Razgrad region, and his remarks were broadcast on the GERB Facebook page.

He explained that if the euro is adopted on January 1 next year, both BGN and EUR could be used for payments for six months. Price tags at stalls and shops would display both currencies. People holding cash could exchange it at any bank or post office, with police presence organized at post offices for security, Borissov added.

He said that after one year, anyone still holding BGN could exchange the currency at the Bulgarian National Bank, where no time limit for exchange would apply, making exchanges possible even after five years.

The Competition Protection Commission and the Consumer Protection Commission have significant powers. Starting in July, prices everywhere could already be listed in both BGN and EUR, so for those six months people can adjust, and so price gouging becomes visible, Borissov added.

"We know what to watch out for and how to approach it," Borissov said.

He added that each mayor would receive training to prevent crowding and queues when residents exchange money.