High-Added-Value Sectors and Bulgarian Industry Need Political Representation, Deputy PM Donchev Says at Innovation Forum

Valentin Evstatiev, Delyan Petrishki

Bulgarian Deputy PM and Minister of Innovation and Growth Tomislav Donchev speaks at the 5th SEE ITS Summit, the largest innovation, technology and sourcing forum in Southeast Europe, Sofia, October 2, 2025 (BTA Photo/Milena Stoykova)

Sofia,

02.10.2025 11:20

(BTA)

High-added-value sectors and Bulgarian industry require political representation because the challenges they face are more complex, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Innovation and Growth Tomislav Donchev said in Sofia on Thursday during the 5th SEE ITS Summit, the largest innovation, technology and sourcing forum in Southeast Europe. The event has been organized by the Association for Innovation, Business Services and Technology (AIBEST).

Donchev called for the creation of a positive and encouraging public and political environment for these economic sectors. “How often do we talk about the traditional and creative industries?” he asked rhetorically, adding that entrepreneurs also need recognition.

Donchev noted that the government is working together with the Ministry of Finance on introducing tax incentives for research and development activities. According to him, Bulgaria is one of the few EU countries that does not currently offer such support.

Also attending the event as an official guest is Petar Dilov, Minister of Economy and Industry.

A key highlight of the programme is the presentation of the new Digitalization 4.0 Index by the SeeNext team, a longstanding analytical partner of the forum.

/DD/