Bulgaria has a significant opportunity to develop its automotive industry through the establishment of large-scale industrial zones that could have a substantial impact on the sector’s growth. This was stated by Lyubomir Stanislavov, Executive Director of Automotive Cluster Bulgaria, during the discussion forum “Innovations That Connect Us,” organized by the 24 Chasa media platform on 16 October 2026 in Sofia.

The forum brought together representatives of European and national institutions, businesses, and academia to discuss opportunities for Bulgaria to develop into a European hub for innovation and technology.

During the discussion, Lyubomir Stanislavov presented the European Industrial Accelerator Act, in the development of which he is involved. The initiative aims to increase the share of manufacturing in the European Union’s gross domestic product to 20% by 2035 and create conditions for attracting new strategic investments.

A particular focus of his remarks was the potential to establish large industrial zones specializing in automotive manufacturing. Such development could create new opportunities for Bulgaria and stimulate growth in related sectors, including the defense industry, software technologies, and data centers.

Stanislavov also highlighted global changes in the automotive industry, including the shift in the center of manufacturing towards Asia. He stressed the need for Europe to take active measures to preserve and strengthen its industrial competitiveness.

Automotive Cluster Bulgaria’s participation in the forum highlighted the country’s potential to attract new investments and secure a more prominent position in the European automotive industry.

Source: 24 Chasa – Lyubomir Stanislavov: Bulgaria Could Have Large Industrial Zones Dedicated Exclusively to the Automotive Industry