Bulgaria: AICB Position on Extraordinary NSTS Session on Tax and Labor Issues

On 14 September 2026, the AICB issued a formal position ahead of an extraordinary session of the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation (NSTS) convened by the Council of Ministers. The session addressed pressing tax and labor policy issues, including the proposed increase in social security contributions, adjustments to the minimum wage formula, and the introduction of a digital services tax aligned with EU directives. The AICB advocated for a balanced approach that preserves labor market flexibility while ensuring fair tax contributions from the digital economy. The position paper also called for impact assessments before implementing new tax measures to avoid unintended consequences for industrial competitiveness.

Key Takeaways

  • Social Security Contribution Debate: AICB opposes unilateral increases in employer contributions without corresponding productivity gains, warning of negative effects on hiring.
  • Digital Services Tax Alignment: Support for a coordinated EU-level digital tax rather than unilateral national measures to prevent double taxation and trade disputes.
  • Evidence-Based Policy Making: Emphasis on rigorous regulatory impact assessments for all proposed tax and labor legislation to ensure proportionality and effectiveness.

Disclaimer: This article is compiled and summarized by the AI based on publicly available information and is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute any form of formal tax advice, legal opinion, or basis for performance. Please consult a qualified professional tax advisor or legal counsel for tax advice.

Source: Read Official Announcement