site.btaSuccessful Implementation of Rheinmetall Project Could Lead to Further High-Tech Investment in Bulgaria - Innovation and Growth Minister

Speaking in an interview with bTV on Sunday, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Innovation and Growth Tomislav Donchev said that if the project between Bulgaria and German company Rheinmetall for the construction of two military production plants is successfully implemented, the government would work towards securing future investment in a more advanced, high-tech manufacturing.

Donchev discussed the planned construction of two plants in Bulgaria: one for the production of NATO-standard artillery shells, and the other - a joint venture for manufacturing gunpowder. He stressed the strategic importance of gunpowder production. "This is a product and a type of production that should not be underestimated. Explosives are a very valuable resource both for the Armed Forces and the military industry, and it is crucial that Bulgaria has the capability to produce them domestically, rather than relying on imports," the Minister said.

The Deputy Prime Minister added that the future plant would give Bulgaria a degree of independence in securing gunpowder supplies, if the need arises.

In his words, the government will ensure the successful implementation of the two facilities. If everything proceeds according to plan, this will lay the groundwork for another investment from Rheinmetall in far more complex production.

"Rheinmetall is a global leader in defence manufacturing, with over a century of experience. They do not just produce ammunition; they also manufacture military vehicles, trucks, and radar systems, among others. I would be glad to see investment at a much higher technological level, which would bring significantly greater added value," Donchev said.

He also noted that the Bulgarian industry is facing labour shortages, describing this as a "major problem as industry makes up 28% of the country’s economy, more than agriculture and tourism combined."