As part of the project “Functionally Sustainable Migration and Integration in Bulgaria,” a regional hybrid meeting with employers brought together business representatives, institutions, and experts in Plovdiv. The event was organized by CEED Bulgaria and the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The meeting was opened by Simeon Tonev, Chair of the Plovdiv Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who highlighted the growing labor shortages in the region and the need for practical, business-oriented solutions.

Stanislav Chervenkov, Deputy Executive Director of CEED Bulgaria, presented the project’s objectives, activities, and results, including the dedicated job-matching platform for third-country nationals – BG Jobs Portal. He emphasized the importance of attracting qualified human capital for sustainable economic growth and strengthening cooperation with Moldova, Albania, Ukraine, Armenia, and Vietnam.

Representatives of the Chamber also introduced concrete tools to support employers. Beata Papazova presented the methodology developed under the project to reduce administrative burdens in hiring foreign workers, stressing the need for digitalization and the establishment of a unified information portal.

The results of an employer survey were also shared, showing that 78% of respondents need additional workforce, while nearly 64% are willing to hire third-country nationals.

During the discussion session, participants from various economic sectors underlined the importance of accelerating procedures, reducing administrative requirements, and improving institutional coordination.

CEED Bulgaria remains committed to building sustainable solutions that support businesses and create real opportunities for attracting and integrating qualified talent.