The Association of Industrial Capital in Bulgaria (AICB) was established in 1996 and is the dynamically developing representative organization at national level in Bulgarian business. Today it is the most representative employers’ organisation in Bulgaria. It has more than 100 chambers representing 3/4 of the economic activities in the country, more than 10 000 companies employing nearly 500 000 people. AICB has an established network of regional chambers covering 2/3 of the country’s municipalities.

The Association of Industrial Capital in Bulgaria has established itself as a spokesman for the real manufacturing sector, defends the interests of its members before the executive and legislative authorities at national and European level, influences the development of the regulatory base and policies in the economic sector, works systematically to increase the competitiveness of Bulgarian enterprises, to create a favorable business environment and stimulate the Bulgarian economy as a whole.

In its development, the Association has shown consistency in the policies pursued and consistency in the actions, has built on the achievements, has been equally distant from all political forces. It has built on what is most valuable since its inception in order to define its organisational shape. Today, it is the only organisation uniting public companies in the country. Hence its enduring interest in the development of capital markets and persistence in efforts to positively perceive the status of issuers. To this end, the organisation works closely with the investment community and with institutions at both national and European level.

Internationally, the Association is also a member of SGI Europe – the European Centre of Employers and Publicly Owned Enterprises and Service Providers – https://sgieurope.org/. The development of services of general interest reflects the European model of society, plays an important role in ensuring social, economic and territorial cohesion within the European Union and is vital for the sustainable development of Europe in terms of higher levels of employment, social integration, economic growth and environmental quality. Through this membership AICB draws experience and brings to the Bulgarian socio-economic environment the best and progressive of the European economic model, including social partnership, as SGI Europe is a direct participant in the European dialogue.

Influencing policy development and bringing in successful measures and good practices is also done through AICB’s participation in both the European Economic and Social Council and the Economic and Social Council of the Republic of Bulgaria.