Kolyachev warns against price hikes before euro switch

Bulgaria transitions to euros in 68 days as officials monitor potential price manipulation. Alexander Kolyachev, chairman of the Consumer Protection Commission, said seasonal products show normal fluctuations but industrywide increases have not emerged. Authorities investigate price spikes only after exhausting explanations for changes.

Citizens file most complaints about hairdressing and locksmith services, according to Kolyachev. Officials examine whether service price increases stem from speculation or from legitimate cost increases in materials. Businesses that round currency conversions upward in violation of regulations face penalties.

The How Much Does It Cost website provides transparent pricing data for consumers. Residents can report suspicious pricing through a national hotline at 070011122 or a mobile application. Legal standards prohibit euro conversion price increases absent shifts in underlying economic factors that affect business expenses.