Bulgaria's tourism revenues are to triple by 2013, said Stanislav Novakov, chairman of the State Tourism Agency, during the presentation of the national strategy for development of the sector for the 2008 – 2013 period.

The strategy stipulates gross revenue in the amount of 6 bln euros from tourism by 2013. 2007 revenue is projected at 2.4 bln euros, which is expected to grow to 3 bln euros this year.

In order to achieve better results, the strategy implies offering of products with higher value added, with the aim of attracting well-off, as well as introduction of new tourist products.

The implementation of the strategy will consume some some 250 mln euros in the next five years. The funds will be sought via the operation program Regional Development, under the priority “Sustainable Tourism Development.”

By 2013 the relative share of additional services will reach 60% of the revenue, and main services will account for 40%. Last year the proportion was vice versa – 40% for additional services and 60% for main.

The strategy has to be coordinated with several Ministries, and then adopted by the Council of Ministers.

The National Tourist Council will discuss the plan at a meeting on January 30. The chairman Mrs. Anelia Krsushkova said the paper was important with regards to Bulgaria's application for EU funding on tourism projects.

Bulgaria's main problem is that domestic tourism is not a very developed sector and there are numerous areas in the country, which are still unable to offer quality products. Moreover, our country ranks 56th in terms of infrastructure development and 44th on potential resources for tourism development.

Bulgaria does not have a recognizable image as a tourist destination in the world. Another weak point is that it is very much dependent on sea tourism.

Ecological issues and excessive construction in resorts are also recognized as problems.