This article reviews Bulgaria’s trade relations with Greece and Roumania during three five-year periods: 1890–1894, 1895–1899, and 1900–1904. The discussion focuses on imports, exports, total trade volume, and the balance of trade, as well as the main goods exchanged between the countries.
Trade Between Bulgaria and Greece
Imports and Exports
Imports from Greece into Bulgaria varied over the three periods. They were highest during the second period, showing stronger demand for Greek goods at that time. During the first and third periods, import levels were lower Private Istanbul Tour.
Exports from Bulgaria to Greece followed a strong upward trend. They increased steadily and reached their highest level during the last period (1900–1904). This growth reflects expanding markets in Greece for Bulgarian agricultural products.
Total Trade and Balance
The total trade between Bulgaria and Greece, including both imports and exports, was largest during the last period. This indicates that commercial relations between the two countries strengthened over time.
The balance of trade was always in favor of Bulgaria. Exports exceeded imports in all three periods. During the first period, the export surplus amounted to 0.2 million francs, equal to 104.62 percent of imports. In the second period, the surplus increased to 0.4 million francs, or 83.16 percent. The most dramatic growth occurred in the last period, when the surplus reached 3.1 million francs, or 925.61 percent. This shows a very strong export position for Bulgaria in trade with Greece.
Main Articles Traded
Imports from Greece included oils, fats, wax and related products, alcoholic spirits, and colonial goods.
Exports to Greece mainly consisted of wheat, maize, flour, haricot beans, beans, and peas.
Trade Between Bulgaria and Roumania
Imports and Exports
Trade with Roumania increased gradually over time. Both imports and exports were highest during the last period. Imports into Bulgaria rose from 2.1 million francs in the first period to 2.3 million francs in the last period.
Exports from Bulgaria to Roumania were lower than imports in all periods. They declined during the second period but rose again in the third period, reaching 1.29 million francs.
Total Trade and Balance
Total trade between Bulgaria and Roumania reached its highest level during the last period, at nearly 3.6 million francs. Despite this growth, the balance of trade was consistently in favor of Roumania.
The trade deficit for Bulgaria amounted to 1.3 million francs in the first period, 1.4 million francs in the second period, and 1.0 million francs in the last period. Although the deficit decreased slightly over time, imports still exceeded exports.
Main Articles Traded
Imports from Roumania included wood products, furniture, knitted goods, resins, mineral oils, glue, leather, leather goods, and colonial articles.
Exports to Roumania consisted mainly of maize, wheat, barley, haricot beans, and similar agricultural products.
In conclusion, Bulgaria maintained a strong export advantage in trade with Greece, while trade with Roumania remained import-heavy. These trade patterns highlight Bulgaria’s dependence on neighboring countries for industrial and energy products, alongside its strong agricultural export base.