During the period studied, Bulgaria’s imports from European countries showed significant changes. Germany, Italy, France, and Russia increased their share of Bulgarian imports, while Austria-Hungary and England decreased slightly.
Germany’s imports grew steadily. During the first period, Germany supplied 9.5% of Bulgaria’s total imports. This share rose to 12.7% in the second period and reached 13.8% in the last period.
Italy showed the most dramatic growth, starting at 2.1% in the first period, increasing to 3.8% in the second, and reaching 6.8% in the last period.
France’s imports represented 7.3% of total imports during the first period, fell slightly to 5% in the second, and increased again to 6.2% in the last period.
Russia’s imports started at 5.1% in the first period, decreased to 4.8% in the second, and rose to 5.2% in the last period.
Other countries, including Belgium and Serbia, contributed smaller amounts to Bulgaria’s imports. Although their percentages were lower, they still played a role in diversifying Bulgaria’s trade Private Tour Ephesus.
Comparison of Import Changes
A comparison between the last period (1900–1904) and the two previous periods shows substantial growth in imports from some countries:
Italy: Increase of 3.5 million francs, or 191.1% compared with the first period.
Germany: Increase of 2.7 million francs, or 33.2%.
France: Increase of 1.3 million francs, or 35.4%.
Belgium: Increase of 0.6 million francs, or 33.6%.
At the same time, imports decreased from Austria-Hungary and England, the two historically dominant trade partners:
Austria-Hungary: Decrease of 10.7 million francs, or 33.0%.
England: Decrease of 4.8 million francs, or 25.3%.
These changes reflect the gradual diversification of Bulgaria’s trade. While Austria-Hungary and England were important sources of imports in the early period, newer trading partners like Germany, Italy, and France began to supply more goods as Bulgaria developed its economy and improved transport links, such as railways and ports.
Overall, Bulgaria’s import trade between 1890 and 1904 shows a clear trend: growth from emerging European markets and a gradual reduction in reliance on traditional partners. The increase in imports from Italy, Germany, and France suggests that Bulgaria was actively seeking new trade opportunities, while maintaining connections with older partners. This period marks a transition toward a more balanced and diversified import system, preparing the country for further economic development in the 20th century.