Glavbolgarstroy took part in a high-level discussion dedicated to the functioning of the construction industry in the European Union, held at the European Commission headquarters in Brussels. Convened by the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and European Commissioner for Prosperity and Industrial Strategy, Stéphane Séjourné, the meeting brought together key stakeholders from the sector to discuss how EU policies can better reflect the real needs of the industry and strengthen its competitiveness and resilience.

The discussion focused primarily on obstacles related to permitting procedures and the provision of cross-border construction services, the need to simplify administrative processes, as well as the role of digitalisation and new technologies in boosting productivity. Glavbolgarstroy was represented in the discussions by Plamena Nenkova, Deputy Executive Director for International Relations and Business Development, who stated:

“Complex administrative permitting procedures, involving multiple institutions at local, regional, and national levels, are among the main reasons for delays in the implementation of a large number of projects in Bulgaria and across the region. At the same time, the current geopolitical environment creates an urgent need for the rapid delivery of projects aimed at building strategic transport, energy, and digital infrastructure. Such projects must be completed within the shortest possible timeframes, rather than over periods of 10 or 15 years.”

Participants, including Presidents and Vice Presidents of companies such as Skanska, VINCI, and others, were invited to share best practices and propose measures to be incorporated into future actions at European level, including the development of the European Housing Strategy. During the discussions, concrete examples were provided of actions that could help create a more favourable investment climate, encourage the adoption of new technologies, and increase productivity across the sector. A common call was made for the simplification and standardisation of procedures.

The second key topic of the strategic dialogue was the strengthening of the circular economy in construction. Particular emphasis was placed on measures to facilitate the wider use of recycled construction materials, highlighting the opportunities offered by the Circular Economy Act, including the revision of the Waste Framework Directive, to create a more integrated European market.

Glavbolgarstroy’s participation in the High-Level Dialogue at the European Commission is a clear indication of the company’s growing role and significance, both on the Bulgarian construction market and across Southeast Europe more broadly. By engaging in this discussion—bringing together leading contractors delivering strategic infrastructure projects, construction materials manufacturers, investors, as well as representatives of small and medium-sized enterprises—Glavbolgarstroy contributes to shaping EU policies for the construction sector.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Ms. Nenkova stated:

“We are committed to supporting EU institutions in shaping a shared vision for a more integrated, efficient, and resilient European construction environment. Our ambition is not merely to have a seat at the table, but to play an active role in the development of the sector and in the future implementation of effective European initiatives that support a competitive business environment”. 

Photo source: European Union, Bogdan Oyo