Understanding Bulgarias Import and Export Trade

To better understand Bulgarian trade, it is useful to compare the values of imports and exports over the last three five-year periods. The comparison shows how much Bulgaria exported for every 100 francs worth of imports from other countries. This method helps us see the balance of trade and the nature of Bulgaria’s commercial relationships. It also helps guide decisions on commercial policy with different countries.

Exports Compared to Imports

From the data, we see that in some cases Bulgaria exported less than it imported. For example, for every 100 francs of goods imported, Bulgaria exported:

Russia: 5 francs

Switzerland: 29 francs

Austria-Hungary: 41 francs

Italy: 55 francs

Romania: 56 francs

Serbia: 72 francs

Germany: 85 francs

Holland: 90 francs

In these cases, Bulgaria’s trade balance was negative, meaning the country imported more than it exported. This shows a dependence on these countries for certain goods.

Countries with Favorable Trade Balance

In contrast, Bulgaria exported more than it imported from several other countries:

Belgium and Greece: Exports were ten times the imports

Turkey and the United States: Exports were about double the imports

France: Exports were 30% higher than imports

These figures show strong markets for Bulgarian products, especially cereals, livestock, and other local goods, in these countries.

Trends Over Three Periods

Looking at the three quinquennial periods, the proportion between exports and imports remained fairly consistent in the first two periods. However, in the period 1900–1904, Bulgaria’s overall exports increased significantly compared with imports, reaching 126.8 francs of exports for every 100 francs of imports. This shows that Bulgaria was gradually becoming a more export-oriented economy, with stronger trade relations in certain markets Private Ephesus Tours.

The table comparing exports and imports illustrates the balance of trade for Bulgaria. It highlights countries where Bulgaria has a surplus or deficit and helps understand which markets are most important. Over time, Bulgaria has been successful in increasing its exports, particularly to Belgium, Greece, Turkey, and the United States, showing the growing international demand for Bulgarian products. This information is essential for shaping future trade policies and promoting economic growth.

Major Export Destinations

During the period 1890–1904, Bulgaria exported cereals and other products to several countries. England was the second largest importer of Bulgarian cereals. In the first period (1890–1894), England received 17.9% of the total exports. This share increased to 28.1% during the second period (1895–1899), before falling to 18.0% in the period 1900–1904.

Other important export destinations included Germany, which imported mainly cereals, Austria-Hungary, which imported raw animal materials and other goods, and France, which also imported cereals. Smaller importers were Greece, Italy, and Romania. Although exports to these countries were less significant, they still showed some growth during 1900–1904.

Increase in Exports (1900–1904)

The period 1900–1904 saw a significant rise in exports to many countries compared with the first period:

Belgium: Increased by 21.9 million francs, or 8,798.1%

Austria-Hungary: Increased by 5.6 million francs, or 161.1%

England: Increased by 4.6 million francs, or 33.5%

Greece: Increased by 3.1 million francs, or 772.3%

Italy: Increased by 1.3 million francs, or 10.3%

United States: Increased by 0.6 million francs, or 3,191.1%

On the other hand, exports to France decreased by 10.7 million francs, or 62.2%, showing a clear decline in trade with that country during this period Private Ephesus Tours.

Comparison with the Second Period (1895–1899)

When compared with the second quinquennial period, exports during 1900–1904 also increased to several key countries:

Belgium: +17.0 million francs, or 274.8%

Austria-Hungary: +4.3 million francs, or 92.5%

Turkey: +4.0 million francs, or 21.5%

Greece: +2.6 million francs, or 301.0%

Italy: +1.6 million francs, or 109.6%

England: +1.3 million francs, or 8.0%

Exports to France fell by 3 million francs, or 31.4%, and exports to Germany fell by 1.2 million francs, or 11.2%.

Overall, Bulgaria’s export trade shifted significantly during the period 1900–1904. Belgium became a major market, while exports to traditional partners such as France and Germany declined. Meanwhile, exports to Greece, Italy, Austria-Hungary, and the United States showed impressive growth. These trends reflect both the expansion of Bulgaria’s production and changing patterns in international demand for Bulgarian goods.

Increase in Imports

During the last period (1900–1904), Bulgaria saw a significant rise in imports from several European countries compared with the previous period (1895–1899).

Italy showed the largest increase, with imports rising by 2.6 million francs, or 30.8% more than the previous period.

Germany’s imports increased by 1.8 million francs, a rise of 19.6%.

France had an increase of 1.4 million francs, or 38.7% more.

Austria-Hungary experienced a smaller rise of 0.9 million francs, or 4.1%.

Russia’s imports rose by 0.7 million francs, or 19.4% Private Tour Ephesus.

In contrast, imports from England decreased by 3.2 million francs, a reduction of 30.8%. This shows a shift in Bulgaria’s trading partners, with southern and central European countries supplying more goods, while England’s role as a supplier declined.

Exports to Belgium

Bulgaria’s export trade experienced important changes during the same period. Belgium became the fastest-growing market for Bulgarian products.

In the first period (1890–1894), exports to Belgium amounted to 1.2 million francs, representing only 1.6% of total exports.

During the second period (1895–1899), exports increased to 6.2 million francs, or 8.4% of total exports.

In the last period (1900–1904), exports to Belgium reached 23.1 million francs, or 22.4% of the total exportation—almost a quarter of all Bulgarian exports.

Belgium has become the most important buyer of Bulgarian products, especially cereals. This growth demonstrates the development of strong trade relations between Bulgaria and Belgium.

Exports to Turkey

For fifteen years, Turkey remained the largest market for Bulgarian exports.

During the first quinquennial period, exports to Turkey were 22.3 million francs, or 29.4% of total exports.

In the second period, exports fell slightly to 18.7 million francs, representing 25.5% of total exports.

In the last period, exports to Turkey rose again to 22.7 million francs, or 22.4% of total exports.

Turkey has remained a profitable market for Bulgarian cattle and industrial products, making it a stable and important trading partner despite the rise of other European buyers like Belgium.

Overall, Bulgaria’s foreign trade between 1895 and 1904 shows two clear trends:

Imports are diversifying, with Italy, Germany, France, Austria-Hungary, and Russia supplying increasing amounts of goods, while England’s share is declining.

Exports are shifting toward new markets, especially Belgium, which has become the largest buyer of Bulgarian products, while Turkey continues to be a key market for agricultural and industrial goods.

These trends reflect Bulgaria’s growing economic integration with Europe and the expansion of its commercial networks.

Imports from Major Countries

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.

Imports from European and Other Countries

After Austria-Hungary, England, and Turkey, Germany, Italy, France, and Russia became important sources of imports for Bulgaria. These countries showed continuous growth in trade, reflecting Bulgaria’s gradually diversifying markets.

Germany supplied 9.5% of Bulgaria’s total imports during 1890–1894. This share increased to 13.7% in 1895–1899, and 13.8% in 1900–1904, showing steady growth. Italy had a smaller but growing share: 2.1% in the first period, 3.8% in the second, and 6.8% in the last period. France followed a similar trend, increasing from 4.3% to 5.0%, and then 6.3% across the three periods. Russia’s imports were 5.1% in the first period, decreased to 4.8% in the second, and slightly increased to 5.3% in the third period.

Other countries contributed smaller amounts. Romania supplied 2.4%, 3.6%, and 4.9% respectively; Belgium 2.0%, 3.1%, and 2.8%; Serbia, Switzerland, Greece, United States, Holland, and Sweden/Norway together contributed minor percentages of Bulgaria’s imports.

Overall changes in imports during 1900–1904 compared with previous periods show that Austria-Hungary remained dominant but decreased slightly. England’s share declined, while Germany, Italy, and France experienced noticeable growth. Turkey’s imports fluctuated but remained important due to regional proximity and traditional trade routes Private Tour Ephesus.

Exports to Foreign Countries

Bulgaria’s exports followed a slightly different pattern. Belgium, Turkey, and England were the main export destinations. Belgian imports increased significantly, reaching 22.9% of total exports in 1900–1904, compared with 1.6% in 1890–1894. Exports to Turkey were relatively stable, around 22–23%. England’s share varied, from 17.9% in the first period to 18.0% in the last.

Exports to Germany, Austria-Hungary, and France were important but fluctuated. German exports rose in the first period but slightly declined later. Austrian-Hungarian exports increased significantly over the periods, reflecting strong economic ties. France’s exports decreased over time.

Smaller shares went to Greece, Italy, Romania, the United States, Serbia, Holland, Russia, and Switzerland. These countries contributed modestly to Bulgarian exports but collectively helped diversify trade markets.

Overall, Bulgaria’s imports and exports became more diversified between 1890 and 1904. Imports increasingly came from Germany, Italy, and France, while exports steadily expanded to Belgium, Turkey, and Austria-Hungary. This trend shows that Bulgaria was integrating into the European trade network, balancing reliance on traditional partners like Austria-Hungary and Turkey with new trade relations across the continent.

The data also shows that Bulgaria’s economy was growing, with rising imports and exports reflecting the development of transport infrastructure, such as railways and ports, which facilitated trade with multiple countries.

Major Sources of Bulgarian Imports

Over the last fifteen years, Austria-Hungary has been the leading supplier of goods to Bulgaria. During the first five-year period, 1890–1894, imports from Austria-Hungary reached their highest level, accounting for 37.5% of Bulgaria’s total imports. However, in the following periods, a noticeable decrease occurred. In 1895–1899, imports from Austria-Hungary fell to 28.9%, and in 1900–1904, they further decreased to 27.3% of the total imports.

This decline is mainly due to the overall reduction in Bulgaria’s total import volume. During the first period, Bulgaria’s total imports were about 14 million francs higher than in the second period and 7 million francs higher than in the third period. Since Austria-Hungary had been the primary trading partner at that time, most of this reduction naturally affected its exports to Bulgaria. In addition, during the early years, other countries had limited access to Bulgarian markets and could not compete effectively with Austrian-Hungarian goods.

Imports from England

The second most important source of imports is England. English imports show a slight decrease in absolute value over the years, but their proportion compared to Bulgaria’s total imports has been uneven. In the first period (1890–1894), English imports represented 21.8% of total imports. During the second period (1895–1899), their share rose to 23.8%, showing temporary growth. However, in the third period (1900–1904), the share dropped significantly to 17.6% Private Tour Ephesus.

Imports from Turkey

Turkey is the next important trading partner. Imports from Turkey have been more variable compared with Austria-Hungary and England. During 1890–1894, Turkish goods accounted for 12.3% of total imports. In the second period, their share slightly decreased to 11.6%, but in the last period (1900–1904), it increased again to 13.8%. This fluctuation shows that Bulgaria’s trade with Turkey was influenced by both market demand and political or economic conditions in the region.

Overall, Austria-Hungary remained the largest source of imports, but its share declined due to the growth of competition and reduced total import volume. England’s imports fluctuated, reflecting shifting demand and trade patterns, while Turkey’s imports remained variable but important. These trends indicate that Bulgaria’s import markets were gradually diversifying, reducing reliance on a single country and establishing trade relations with multiple European partners.

Development of Bulgarian Maritime Trade

The data presented clearly show that, in recent years, Bulgaria’s trade has grown significantly through its maritime ports. This growth is largely due to the construction of two important railway lines: Yambol–Bourgas and Sofia–Plevna–Varna. These railways connect the interior regions of Bulgaria with the country’s two main Black Sea ports, Varna and Bourgas, making transportation of goods faster and more efficient.

Before these railways were built, most cereals from Southern Bulgaria were exported to Constantinople and Dede Agatch via Harmanly. Now, a large portion of these cereals is sent to Bourgas, which provides better access to the Black Sea and international markets. Similarly, cereals from Northern Bulgaria, which were previously exported via the Danube, are now being transported to Varna, thanks to the new railway line connecting Sofia and Varna.

The success of these ports is explained not only by the rail connections but also by their strategic locations and excellent facilities, which allow Bulgaria to maintain strong commercial relations with foreign countries. As a result, maritime trade has become the main channel for both imports and exports, surpassing older trade routes through the Danube or overland.

Distribution of Foreign Trade by Country

The following tables show Bulgaria’s foreign trade, organized by the origin or destination of goods. Countries are ranked according to the average volume of their imports and exports during the last five-year period (1900–1904).

For each country, the tables present:

The absolute value of imports and exports

The percentage of total Bulgarian trade

The difference between the period 1900–1904 and the two previous quinquennial periods

This information helps to understand Bulgaria’s trade relationships and identify which countries have become more important trading partners. It also shows how the development of ports and railway lines has shifted the flow of goods, with more trade now passing through Varna and Bourgas instead of older routes through the Danube or overland crossings Private Tour Ephesus.

Impact of Railways on Trade Patterns

In conclusion, the growth of Bulgaria’s foreign commerce is closely linked to infrastructure development. By building modern railways to the Black Sea ports, Bulgaria has improved the efficiency and volume of exports, especially cereals. These improvements have not only boosted trade with foreign markets but have also strengthened the national economy by connecting agricultural regions with modern transport routes.

Exports by Land Through Sofia

The customs-house at Sofia has become one of the most important points for Bulgaria’s land exports. During the three periods under review, the exports through Sofia were as follows:

First period (1890–1894): 1.42% of total exports, 5.03% of land exports

Second period (1895–1899): 4.05% of total exports, 18.44% of land exports

Last period (1900–1904): 7.63% of total exports, 28.53% of land exports

The large increase in exports through Sofia is mainly due to the development of the egg trade, which in recent years has been almost entirely transported via the Sofia–Tzaribrod route. Another contributing factor is the growth in the export of animal waste products, which have increasingly used this route for shipment.

Exports by Land Through Plovdiv

The customs-house at Plovdiv ranks next in importance for land exports. Its share of exports during the three periods was:

First period: 3.36% of total exports, 11.89% of land exports

Second period: 3.31% of total exports, 15.08% of land exports

Last period: 6.18% of total exports, 23.11% of land exports

The increase in Plovdiv’s share is partly due to political instability in Macedonia and the Adrianople vilayet, which caused a diversion of trade from the border customs points to the Plovdiv–Harmanly railway line. From there, goods were shipped to Constantinople, Adrianople, and Dede Agatch, a route considered safer and more reliable than the older paths.

Factors Influencing Land Exports

Overall, the growth of exports through Sofia and Plovdiv reflects the changing patterns in Bulgarian trade. Railways became increasingly important in moving goods safely and efficiently. The egg trade and animal waste products were key commodities driving the growth in Sofia, while political disruptions in neighboring regions boosted Plovdiv’s role Private Tour Guide Ephesus.

These developments show that Bulgaria adapted its trade routes to meet market demands and ensure security, shifting from traditional border customs points to well-connected railway lines and central customs-houses.

Exports Through the Danube Ports

Bulgaria’s export trade along the Danube River shows noticeable changes between 1890 and 1904. The main Danube ports—Sistova, Roustchouk, Viddin, and Lorn—played key roles in the country’s foreign commerce.

Exports Through Sistova

The port of Sistova had the following share of Bulgaria’s exports:

First period (1890–1894): 6.73% of total exports, 13.26% of Danube exports

Second period (1895–1899): 6.32% of total exports, 17.44% of Danube exports

Last period (1900–1904): 3.86% of total exports, 14.22% of Danube exports

These figures show that Sistova’s share of total exports declined over time, although it remained an important port for river trade.

Exports Through Roustchouk

Roustchouk was another significant Danube port:

First period: 4.72% of total exports, 13.73% of Danube exports

Second period: 5.12% of total exports, 14.13% of Danube exports

Last period: 3.63% of total exports, 13.38% of Danube exports

Roustchouk maintained a relatively stable role in Danube exports, but its share of total exports decreased during the last period Private Tour Guide Ephesus.

Exports Through Viddin

The port of Viddin contributed consistently to exports:

First period: 4.12% of total exports, 11.97% of Danube exports

Second period: 4.12% of total exports, 11.98% of Danube exports

Last period: 4.34% of total exports, 13.30% of Danube exports

Viddin’s exports remained stable in proportion to total exports, while its share of Danube exports increased slightly, showing its growing regional importance.

Exports Through Lorn

The port of Lorn handled smaller export volumes:

First period: 2.72% of total exports, 7.90% of Danube exports

Second period: 3.41% of total exports, 9.43% of Danube exports

Last period: 3.40% of total exports, 12.53% of Danube exports

Although Lorn’s share of total exports stayed relatively small, its importance for Danube trade grew steadily.

Exports by Land Through Harmanly

For land exports, the customs-house at Harmanly was the most important:

First period: 15.67% of total exports, 55.99% of land exports

Second period: 11.37% of total exports, 51.78% of land exports

Last period: 8.62% of total exports, 32.21% of land exports

This shows a steady decline in Harmanly’s share of total exports, reflecting the growth of other export routes, especially the sea and other Danube ports.

Overall, Bulgaria’s Danube ports played a major role in exports, though their shares changed over time. Sea exports grew faster, while land exports gradually lost proportion. This reflects the shift of Bulgarian foreign trade toward maritime routes during 1890–1904.

Export Trends by Sea Danube and Land

Bulgaria’s exports from 1890 to 1904 show interesting changes depending on the route—sea, river, or land. During the last period (1900–1904), exports by sea increased significantly, while exports by the Danube decreased. Land exports had smaller variations.

Exports by Sea

Sea exports rose sharply during the last period:

Compared with 1890–1894: +8.72%

Compared with 1895–1899: +4.28%

This increase reflects the growing importance of Bulgaria’s Black Sea ports in international trade. The main sea ports were Varna, Bourgas, and Balchik Private Tour Guide Ephesus.

Varna:

First period: 16.83% of total exports, 45.02% of sea exports

Second period: 17.58% of total exports, 42.03% of sea exports

Last period: 19.52% of total exports, 42.33% of sea exports

Bourgas:

First period: 11.72% of total exports, 31.35% of sea exports

Second period: 16.21% of total exports, 38.74% of sea exports

Last period: 17.50% of total exports, 37.95% of sea exports

Balchik:

First period: 7.94% of total exports, 21.23% of sea exports

Second period: 7.22% of total exports, 17.20% of sea exports

Last period: 8.88% of total exports, 19.25% of sea exports

The data show that Varna and Bourgas became the dominant ports for sea exports, while Balchik played a smaller but stable role.

Exports by the Danube

Exports through the Danube decreased over time:

Compared with 1890–1894: −7.22%

Compared with 1895–1899: −9.07%

The main Danube port, Orchovo, contributed as follows:

First period: 4.56% of total exports, 13.26% of Danube exports

Second period: 5.11% of total exports, 14.12% of Danube exports

Last period: 4.24% of total exports, 15.62% of Danube exports

Despite the decrease in total exports via the Danube, Orchovo’s share of Danube exports increased slightly, showing its relative importance among river ports.

Exports by Land

Exports by land showed smaller changes:

Last period compared with first: −1.50%

Last period compared with second: +4.79%

Land routes remained important for regional trade, particularly connecting inland cities with Black Sea ports and neighboring countries.

Overall, Bulgaria’s exports by sea grew steadily, showing a shift toward Black Sea trade, while exports by the Danube declined. Land exports remained stable with minor fluctuations. The ports of Varna and Bourgas led the growth in sea exports, whereas Orchovo maintained its importance for river trade. These trends reflect Bulgaria’s evolving trade infrastructure and the increasing role of the Black Sea in foreign commerce.

Imports Through Plovdiv and Harmanly

The customs-houses at Plovdiv and Harmanly played an important role in Bulgaria’s land-based trade. Their share of total imports and land imports changed over the three quinquennial periods (1890–1894, 1895–1899, and 1900–1904).

Plovdiv Customs-House

First period (1890–1894):

Plovdiv handled 13.78% of total imports and 39.28% of imports by land.

Second period (1895–1899):

Its share increased slightly to 14.07% of total imports and 43.01% of land imports.

Third period (1900–1904):

Plovdiv managed 13.69% of total imports and 37.92% of land imports Private Tour Guide Ephesus.

Although Plovdiv remained an important customs point, its relative share of land imports declined slightly in the last period due to the growth of other routes.

Harmanly Customs-House

Harmanly had a smaller share but remained a useful entry point for goods transported by land:

First period: 3.60% of total imports and 10.7% of land imports

Second period: 1.67% of total imports and 5.09% of land imports

Third period: 2.25% of total imports and 6.24% of land imports

Harmanly’s contribution to total imports was minor, but it served as a supplementary route for local and regional trade.

Exports by Sea, Danube, and Land

Exports showed a different pattern from imports. Exports by sea increased steadily, while those by land and the Danube changed less predictably.

Exports by the Black Sea

First period (1890–1894): 37.39% of total exports

Second period (1895–1899): 41.83%

Third period (1900–1904): 46.11%

The growth of exports by the Black Sea was gradual but consistent. Ports like Varna and Bourgas became increasingly important for foreign trade.

Exports by the Danube

Exports through the Danube declined over time:

First period: 34.36% of total exports

Second period: 36.21%

Third period: 27.14%

This drop shows that traders preferred sea routes over river transport for exporting goods during the last period.

Exports by Land

Land exports increased slightly in the last period:

Second period: 21.96% of total exports

Third period: 26.75%

The expansion of railways and better connections between inland cities and ports helped facilitate these land exports.

In summary, Plovdiv and Harmanly were key land customs-houses, while the Black Sea ports gained importance for exports. Trade patterns shifted over time: sea transport grew, Danube river traffic decreased, and land exports rose due to improvements in railway infrastructure. These changes reflect Bulgaria’s gradual modernization of trade routes and better connectivity between ports and inland areas.

Import Routes Through the Danube and Land (1890–1904)

This section explains how Bulgaria’s imports were distributed among various Danube ports and major land customs-houses during three five-year periods: 1890–1894, 1895–1899, and 1900–1904. The data shows clear changes in the importance of each route over time.

Imports Through Sistova

Sistova was an active Danube port during the earlier years, but its importance declined over time.

First period (1890–1894):

Sistova handled 8.53% of total imports and 23.13% of imports arriving by the Danube.

Second period (1895–1899):

Its share fell to 6.65% of total imports and 19.59% of Danube imports.

Third period (1900–1904):

Only 3.77% of total imports and 13.91% of Danube imports passed through Sistova Private Tour Guide Ephesus.

This steep decline shows that traders increasingly chose other ports or alternative transport routes.

Imports Through Somovit

Somovit became a new entry point only during the last period. This was possible because Somovit was newly connected to Plevna by a railway line, which made transport easier and faster.

Last period (1900–1904):

Somovit handled 2.25% of total imports and 8.32% of all Danube imports.

Although it entered the system late, Somovit quickly became a useful supplementary Danube port.

Imports Through Widdin

Widdin (Vidin) also saw a gradual decrease in importance.

First period: 3.31% of total imports and 8.99% of Danube imports

Second period: 2.36% of total imports and 7.02% of Danube imports

Third period: 1.95% of total imports and 7.23% of Danube imports

Widdin kept a similar share of Danube imports during the last two periods, but its role in total imports continued to shrink.

Imports Through Oréshovo

Oréshovo followed the same downward trend.

First period: 2.77% of total imports and 7.52% of Danube imports

Second period: 3.02% of total imports and 8.92% of Danube imports

Third period: 1.51% of total imports and 5.60% of Danube imports

While Oréshovo grew slightly in the second period, it lost much of its importance by the third.

Land and Railway Imports

Land and railway imports mainly passed through the customs-houses of Sofia, Plovdiv, and Harmanli, with Sofia being the largest and most influential.

Imports Through Sofia

Sofia’s customs-house became increasingly important as railway connections improved and trade flows shifted from river transport to land routes.

First period: 14.96% of total imports and 42.66% of land imports

Second period: 15.37% of total imports and 46.97% of land imports

Third period: 18.74% of total imports and 51.90% of land imports

This steady rise shows that Sofia evolved into the central hub for land-based trade.

The data shows that Danube ports generally declined in importance, especially Sistova and Oréshovo, while newer or better-connected ports like Somovit entered the system. At the same time, land and railway imports increased, with Sofia becoming the dominant customs center. These trends reflect Bulgaria’s growing railway network and its gradual shift from river transport to more modern land-based routes in the early 20th century.

Changes in Bulgarian Imports by Route (1890–1904)

This section examines how Bulgaria’s imports changed over three main five-year periods: 1890–1894, 1895–1899, and 1900–1904. The imports came through three different routes: by sea, by the Danube River, and by land. The numbers show the percentage share of total imports for each route and how these shares changed over time.

Imports by Land

Imports transported by land were not stable during the three periods.

In the first period (1890–1894), land imports made up 36.05% of all imports.

In the second period (1895–1899), this share fell to 32.72%.

In the third period (1900–1904), the share increased again to 36.11%.

When we compare the last period with the earlier ones, land imports were 1.05% lower than in the first period and 3.39% lower than in the second. This shows that land transport did not experience strong long-term growth and remained fairly irregular.

Imports by Sea

Sea imports grew more steadily and became increasingly important.

During the last period (1900–1904), sea imports were:

8.75% higher than in the first period

3.47% higher than in the second period

This increase shows that maritime transport was becoming the preferred route for bringing goods into Bulgaria. The growth was especially strong through the ports of Varna and Bourgas.

Imports Through Varna and Bourgas

Varna

Varna played the biggest role in sea imports:

In the first period, Varna accounted for 17.74% of all imports and 63.17% of all sea imports.

In the second period, it increased to 20.89% of total imports and 62.59% of sea imports.

In the last period, Varna’s share rose sharply to 27.54% of total imports and 74.77% of all imports by sea.

This clear upward trend shows that Varna became Bulgaria’s leading import port.

Bourgas

Bourgas also contributed to sea imports, although with more variation:

First period: 9.58% of total imports and 34.12% of sea imports

Second period: 11.87% of total imports and 35.58% of sea imports

Last period: 8.80% of total imports and 23.90% of sea imports

While Bourgas had growth during the second period, its importance declined in the third period.

Imports by the Danube

The Danube ports handled a smaller share of imports over time. Overall, Danube imports in the last period were:

9.80% lower than in the first period

6.88% lower than in the second period

This decline shows that river transport was losing ground to sea and land routes Ephesus Daily Tour.

The Port of Roustchouk

Roustchouk was the most important Danube port:

First period: 13.17% of total imports and 41.15% of Danube imports

Second period: 16.29% of total imports and 43.04% of Danube imports

Last period: 14.96% of total imports and 55.34% of Danube imports

Although Roustchouk increased its share of Danube imports, the Danube route as a whole declined.

These figures show clear long-term trends in Bulgaria’s trade patterns. Sea imports grew the most, led mainly by the port of Varna. Danube imports declined, while land imports remained inconsistent. By the early 1900s, maritime transport had become the strongest and most reliable method for bringing goods into the country.

Movement of Bulgarian Imports and Exports (1890–1904)

The following section explains how Bulgaria’s imports and exports changed over three different periods: 1890–1894, 1895–1899, and 1900–1904. The trade is divided into three main routes: the Black Sea, the Danube River, and land routes. The numbers show both the value in millions of francs and the percentage of total trade for each route.

Imports General Movement Over Three Periods

During the first period (1890–1894), total imports reached 86.6 million francs. Of this amount:

28.08% came by sea,

36.86% by the Danube,

35.06% by land.

In the second period (1895–1899), total imports fell slightly to 72.5 million francs, but the share of routes changed. Imports by sea increased to 33.36%, while Danube imports dropped to 33.92%. Land imports remained steady at 32.72% Ephesus Daily Tour.

In the last period (1900–1904), imports rose again to 79.8 million francs. The share of sea imports increased further to 36.83%, Danube imports fell to 27.06%, and land imports accounted for 36.11%.

Exports General Movement Over Three Periods

Exports also changed noticeably over the same three periods.

Exports by sea increased steadily, rising from 37.39% in the first period to 41.83% in the second. By the last period, they reached 46.11%, showing that sea trade was becoming increasingly important.

Exports by the Danube decreased from 34.36% to 36.21%, and then fell sharply to 27.14%.

Land exports also fluctuated without major growth.

Combined Imports and Exports

When imports and exports are added together, it becomes clear that the Black Sea route gained greater importance. The share of total trade by sea increased from 32.44% in the first period to 42.02% in the last.

At the same time, Danube trade declined from 35.69% to 27.10%.

Comparison Between Periods

A comparison of the first and last periods shows:

Imports

Sea imports increased by 5.1 million francs in 1890–1894 and by 5.2 million francs in 1895–1899.

Danube imports decreased strongly, falling 10.3 million francs in the first comparison and 3.0 million francs in the second.

Land imports grew, especially in the last period.

Exports

Sea exports rose sharply, increasing by 18.2 million francs in the first comparison and 16.1 million francs in the second.

Danube exports remained weak, with only small changes.

Land exports increased steadily.

Total Trade

Sea trade grew by more than 23 million francs in the first comparison and 21.3 million francs in the second, clearly showing a long-term shift toward maritime commerce.

These figures clearly show a steady and important growth in trade through the Black Sea ports. This increase came mainly at the expense of the Danube route, which lost a large share of both imports and exports between 1890 and 1904. The sea route became the most reliable and profitable path for Bulgaria’s foreign commerce during this period.

The Modern Situation of Bulgarian Postal

The Modern Situation of Bulgarian Postal, Telegraph, and Telephone Services

By the early twentieth century, the Bulgarian communication system had grown rapidly and had become an important part of national life. The postal, telegraph, and telephone services now formed a large and organized network that connected towns, villages, and important commercial centers across the country.

Postal and Telegraph Stations

At this time, Bulgaria had 183 post and telegraph stations. Out of these, 9 were summer offices, which opened only during certain seasons, and 24 were travelling post stations, which moved from place to place to reach areas without permanent facilities.

In addition, the country operated 1,758 postal agencies, many of them in smaller communities. The total number of officials working in these services was 3,495, and 1,758 of them were paid by the communes, meaning local communities supported a large part of the postal workforce Ephesus Daily Tour.

Telegraph and Telephone Networks

The telegraph system had also expanded greatly. Bulgaria now had 5,261 kilometres of telegraph lines, carrying 10,021 kilometres of telegraph wires. This allowed fast communication between major cities and government offices.

The telephone system was still developing but was already impressive for the period. There were:

145 kilometres of urban telephone lines, with 1,900 kilometres of wires,

4 central telephone stations,

565 telephone posts,

900 kilometres of intra-town telephone lines and 1,420 kilometres of telephone wires connecting different neighbourhoods.

These early telephone networks made communication much easier for businesses, government offices, and private citizens.

Postal Activity and Money Transfers

The postal service handled a large and growing amount of mail. Every year, post offices in Bulgaria transmitted about 29,063,043 letters and parcels.

The amount of money transferred through the postal system was also impressive, reaching 273,241,748 francs. This shows how important the postal service had become for economic and personal transactions.

Financial Condition in 1903

In 1903, it cost 3,160,000 francs to maintain the entire postal and telegraph system. The revenue for the same year was 3,373,553 francs, which created a surplus of 213,557 francs. This was a significant achievement, showing that the system was not only growing but also becoming financially stable.

Twenty-Five Years of Progress

In summary, the Bulgarian postal and telegraph administration made remarkable progress during its first twenty-five years. From a small, developing system, it became a modern national network that helped support communication, trade, and daily life.

Foreign Commerce: Imports and Exports

We have already presented statistics on Bulgaria’s general commerce from 1879 to 1904. In this chapter, we will examine foreign trade more closely. The analysis covers the years 1890 to 1904, divided into five-year periods. The trade will also be studied according to the three main commercial routes used by Bulgaria:

The Black Sea Route

The Danube Route

The Mainland Route

These trade routes played an important role in Bulgaria’s economic development and shaped the country’s connections with foreign markets.

Roads and Means of Communication in Bulgaria

This section explains how the Bulgarian postal and telegraph services developed and improved over time. By the year 1894, the postal system had already transported 16,430,000 letters and parcels, and had sent 218,105,695 francs through money orders. During that year, the system had an expenditure of 2,534,263 francs and a revenue of 2,303,474 francs, which resulted in a deficit of 230,789 francs. Although the system was not yet financially balanced, it continued to grow and modernize rapidly.

Major Reforms After 1894

Between 1894 and the early 1900s, several important reforms transformed and strengthened the Bulgarian postal and telegraph services. These reforms helped complete the organization of the system and extend it across the entire country.

1. Expansion to Rural Areas

Before 1896, only people living in towns could use postal and telegraph services. Villagers had very limited access or none at all. Starting in 1896, this changed completely. The government introduced a rural postal system that connected even the smallest villages and hamlets to the national network. This meant that nearly every Bulgarian citizen could now send and receive letters and parcels Ephesus Daily Tour.

2. Introduction of Postal Savings Banks

Around the same time, postal savings banks were opened inside many post and telegraph offices. These new services allowed people to save money safely and conveniently. They offered an important financial tool for workers, farmers, and small merchants across the country. More detailed statistics about these savings banks were published later.

3. Development of the Telephone System

The Bulgarian telephone system also began to grow. Several new lines were built, including important long-distance routes such as:

Sofia–Roustchouk

Roustchouk–Varna

In addition, local telephone services were introduced in both Roustchouk and Varna. A new telephone cable across the Danube connected the networks of Bulgaria and Romania, linking Roustchouk with the town of Giurgevo. This greatly improved international communication.

4. Lower Postal Rates

A careful review of postal tariffs led to a reduction of several postal taxes. One of the most important changes was the reduction of the cost of sending a home letter—from 15 centimes to 10 centimes per 15 grams. This made letter-writing more affordable for ordinary people.

5. New Services and More Offices

During this period, Bulgaria also introduced the cash-on-delivery and reimbursement systems, which made postal transactions safer and more convenient. The government opened 49 new post and telegraph stations and created 1,779 postal agencies across the country. This expansion played a major role in improving communication and supporting social and economic development.

Development of the Bulgarian Postal and Telegraph Services After 1880

After 1880, the postal and telegraph services in Bulgaria began to grow rapidly. This period marked a turning point in the organization and efficiency of these services. Bulgaria joined the International Postal Union, which allowed the country to participate in international congresses and improve its postal connections.

At the same time, Bulgaria successfully closed the Austrian post offices in Sofia, Roustchouk, and Varna, which had been operating under old agreements but were no longer needed. The postal services were gradually extended to include parcel post, newspaper subscriptions, home and foreign money orders, and letters and parcels with declared value.

Fusion of Postal Administrations and Emergency Service

In September 1885, when Northern Bulgaria united with Eastern Roumelia, the postal administrations of the two regions were merged. During the Serbo-Bulgarian War, the Bulgarian postal and telegraph system demonstrated its ability to provide critical support in times of emergency.

In 1885, the Bulgarian postal and telegraph offices handled:

642,566 telegraphic messages (home and foreign)

5,438,272 letters and parcels

23,424,562 francs sent via postal orders or bills

These figures show the rapid growth and importance of the services.

Expansion of Services (1886–1894)

By 1886, Bulgaria had 108 post and telegraph offices with a staff of 1,011 officials. The telegraph network extended 3,548 kilometres, using 5,889 kilometres of wire. Revenue for that year was 1,257,830 francs, but expenditure reached 2,206,154 francs, leaving a deficit of 648,318 francs Ephesus Daily Tour.

Between 1886 and 1894, the postal and telegraph system expanded despite political and financial challenges. Key developments included:

Opening 17 new post and telegraph offices

Closing the Austrian post office in Plovdiv

Signing postal agreements with Romania, Great Britain, Japan, Germany, and Spain

Laying a telegraph cable across the Danube, connecting Viddin with Kalafat

Building the first telephone line between Sofia and Plovdiv

State of the Services by 1894

By 1894, the Bulgarian postal and telegraph system had grown significantly:

125 offices with 1,073 staff

3,894 km of telegraph lines, representing 9,728 km of wire

47 km of urban telephone lines with 299 km of wires

173 km of intra-town telephone lines with 335 km of wires

1,234,263 telegrams sent (home and foreign)

This period laid the foundation for modern communications in Bulgaria and reflected the increasing importance of postal and telegraph services in supporting both government and public needs.

Overview of the Bulgarian State Railways

This article gives an overview of the main railway lines of the Bulgarian State Railways, including their length, the dates they were opened, and important ownership details. It also explains which lines belong fully to the State and which are operated under special agreements with private companies.

Main Railway Lines and Opening Dates

The Bulgarian State Railways have built many important lines since the late 1800s. The following table shows the major lines, the date each one was opened, and their approximate length. Many numbers in early records are written in older formats, so approximate modern readings are used where neededLocal Ephesus Tour Guides.

Roustchouk–Varna Line

Opened: August 10, 1888

Length: About 272 km

Tzaribrod–Sofia–Bellovo Line

Opened: June 23, 1888

Length: About 192 km

Sofia–Pernik Line

Opened: December 9, 1893

Length: About 47 km

Choumen–Kaspitchan Line

Opened: June 20, 1895

Length: About 26 km

Pernik–Radomir Line

Opened: February 6, 1897

Length: About 18 km

Sofia–Roman Line

Opened: February 20, 1897

Length: About 119 km

Gübedje–Devnia Line

Opened: September 27, 1898

Length: About 15 km

Roman–Plevna Line

Opened: July 18, 1899

Length: About 89 km

Plevna–Choumen Line

Opened: November 8, 1899

Length: About 262 km

Somovit–Yassen Line

Opened: September 1, 1899

Length: About 35 km

Roustchouk–Timova Line

Opened: October 8, 1900

Length: About 150 km

Tchirpan–Nova Zagora Line

Opened: September 5, 1900

Length: About 80 km

Jamboli–Bourgas Line

Opened: May 18, 1900

Length: About 112 km

Privately Built Industrial Branch Lines

Besides the main lines, some short branch lines were built by private companies for industrial use. They are private property but connect directly to the State network. Examples include:

A 675-meter line linking the Balabanoff factory with the Sofia–Roman railway.

A 475-meter line of the Isida Pottery Company, connecting their facilities to the Tzaribrod–Sofia–Bellovo line near the village of Novo Seltzi.

Ownership and Operation

Almost all major lines in Bulgaria are owned and operated by the State. There are only a few exceptions:

Bellovo–Sarambey Line

This line was built before Bulgaria’s liberation by the Oriental Railway Company, which still owns it. However, the Bulgarian State operates the line, appoints all staff, and receives annual payments from the Oriental Company. According to the Convention of March 8, 1894, the State receives 1,200 francs per kilometre per year, plus an additional payment of 6 centimes per axle-kilometre for rolling stock use.

Tchirpan–Nova Zagora Line

Although this line was built by the Bulgarian State, it is leased to the Oriental Railway Company under an agreement signed on March 16/28, 1899.

Construction Costs of Major Railway Lines

The following section summarises the cost of building the main State lines. Costs are shown in francs and include both total cost and cost per kilometre.

Examples include:

Roustchouk–Varna: 50,884,910 francs (228,686 francs/km)

Sofia–Roman: 27,685,434 francs (253,485 francs/km)

Jamboli–Bourgas: 11,085,706 francs (100,386 francs/km)

In total, the State invested over 151 million francs in the major lines, covering more than 1,200 kilometres of track.

Through Service Between the Bulgarian State Railways and the Imperial and Royal Danube Steam Navigation Company

General Tariff for Goods Transport

The through service between the Bulgarian State Railways and the Imperial and Royal Company for Steam Navigation on the Danube operates mainly through the ports of Somovit and Roustchouk. The general tariff for this service is similar to the tariff used in other international transport agreements. It covers a wide range of goods, including:

General goods of various kinds

Skins and hides, as well as other related products

Iron and metal items

Glass products

Pottery and porcelain

Cement and similar construction materials

Cereals and agricultural products

Mineral ores, stones, and related raw materials

Wood for building and construction

Exceptional Tariff

Some goods fall under exceptional tariffs because of their special nature, handling requirements, or commercial importance Local Ephesus Tour Guides. These include:

No. 1: Sugar

No. 11: Bones and related materials

No. 12: Beer and alcoholic beverages

No. 13: Flour and milling products

These exceptional tariffs help regulate costs and ensure proper processing of goods requiring special care.

Procedures for Collecting and Delivering Goods

Documentation and Transit Notes

The collection and delivery of goods are carried out using delivery or transit notes. These documents are exchanged:

Between the train guards and the station officials

Between the railway administrations of different countries at the frontier

This system ensures correct record-keeping, verification, and safe transfer of goods from one railway authority to another.

Packing Regulations

The method of packing goods on the Bulgarian State Railways follows the rules set out in:

The Railway Working Regulations, and

The Convention annexed to those Regulations

These standards ensure that goods are packed safely and consistently, especially when being transported across international borders.

Loading and Unloading Equipment

To handle goods, the Bulgarian State Railways use several types of equipment, including:

Wheelbarrows

Covers and protective sheets

Wooden bridges

Ladders

Ropes

Levers

Cranes

These tools help railway workers load and unload goods efficiently and safely. All procedures follow the guidelines contained in the official railway conventions and regulations.

Classification of Railway Stations in Bulgaria

The Bulgarian State Railways consist of 72 stations. For administrative purposes, they are divided into five classes, based on size, importance, and traffic volume.

1st Class Station

Sofia – the capital and main railway center

2nd Class Stations

Bourgas

Varna

Goraia-Ordhovitza

Katinetz

Plevna

Roustchouk

Tzaribrod

Yambol

3rd Class Stations

Bellovo

Eski-Djoumaya

Ichtiman

Comobal

Kaspitchan

Kostenetz-Bania

Mezdra-Vratza

Pernik

Poppovo

Razgrad

Roman

Tirnovo

Shoumen

4th and 5th Class Stations

21 stations belong to the 4th class

26 stations belong to the 5th class

These classifications help the railway administration manage resources, staffing, and services more effectively.

Special Goods and Tariffs in International Railway Services

Types of Goods with Specific Tariffs

Several types of goods receive special treatment because of their weight, fragility, or commercial value. These include:

Glass

Pottery and porcelain

Cement and stones

Lignite briquettes

Slates

Lithographic stones

Cardboard

Crystals of iron sulphate

Paper

Cotton fabrics

Linen fabrics

Wool

Wooden toys

These goods often fall under exceptional tariffs because they require careful handling, special packaging, or different transport conditions Local Ephesus Tour Guides.

Through Service Between Hungary and Bulgaria (via Somovit and Roustchouk)

Exceptional Tariff Categories

The railway services between Hungary and Bulgaria include several exceptional tariffs that apply to specific goods. These special tariffs help regulate prices for important commercial items transported across the border.

Exceptional Tariff No. 1–12 Include:

Sugar

Various kinds of goods

Mineral waters

Iron

Glass

Paper

Pottery and porcelain

Cement

Wooden furniture

Iron furniture

Agricultural machinery

Jute sacks

Exceptional Tariff No. 13–21 Include:

Starch

Extracts from oak and wood

Rope-making materials

Brushes

Lamps

Glue

Matches

British gum

Rock salt

These categories help ensure that the transport costs reflect the nature and handling needs of each product.

Through Service Between the Bulgarian State Railways and the Hungarian River and Maritime Navigation Company (via Somovit and Roustchouk)

General Tariff Structure

The general tariff includes:

Fast trains

Full rates

Reduced rates

Class I Goods

Goods trains

Class A

Class B

This structure applies to most domestic and international shipments.

Exceptional Tariffs for This Service

The following goods fall under special tariffs when transported through this joint service:

Sugar

Various goods

Skins and similar products

Iron and related materials

Paper

Tobacco

Salt

Cereals

Mineral ores

Wood for building

Bones

Cement and similar materials

Starch

Wine and alcohol

Empty sacks

Flour and related products

Pottery and porcelain

Through Service Between Roumania and Bulgaria (via the Danube)

This international service follows almost the same tariff rules as the service operated jointly by the Bulgarian State Railways and the Hungarian River and Maritime Navigation Company. Goods are handled under similar general and exceptional tariffs, ensuring continuity in pricing and regulation.

Local Railway Service and Goods Tariffs

General Tariff Overview

The general tariff covers the prices for transporting goods by fast trains and by goods trains. It is organized into several parts to help shippers understand how their cargo will be charged.

Fast Train Tariffs

Fast train tariffs include:

Full Tariff – the normal rate applied to most goods.

Reduced Tariff – for shipments over 5,000 kilograms, with no special conditions.

Partial Consignments – used when smaller quantities of goods are sent.

Goods Train Tariffs

For goods sent by regular goods trains, the following categories are used:

Full Rates – applied to normal shipments Local Ephesus Tour Guides.

Bulky Goods – items that take up extra space.

Class A, B, and C Goods – categories based on type, value, or handling needs.

1st and 2nd Class Goods – depending on priority or special requirements.

Exceptional Tariffs in Local Service

In addition to the general tariff, there are 17 exceptional tariffs for specific types of goods. These tariffs apply special rules or prices. They cover:

Live animals

Various goods

Alcohol, wine, vinegar

Cement, hydraulic lime

Salt

Cereals and oil-bearing grains

Flour and bran

Tobacco leaves

Timber for building

Eggs and dead poultry

Stones and similar materials

Explosives

Cheese and kashkaval

Vegetables and fruits

Iron, steel

Petroleum

Skins and intestines

Through Service with the Oriental Railways

General Tariff

The general tariff for through services is the same as for local services.

Special Tariffs

There are special tariffs for specific products in international transport between the Bulgarian State Railways and the Oriental Railways, including:

Live animals

Various goods

Beer

Wine and alcohol

Salt

Cereals

Flour and milling products

Bran

Building wood

Eggs

Building stone

Explosives

Through Service Between Austria-Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Turkey

General Tariff

The general tariff also remains the same as for local services.

Exceptional Tariffs

Many goods have exceptional tariffs in this international system, including:

Live animals

Alcohol, wine, vinegar

Mineral waters

Sugar

Iron and steel

Paper

Glass

Pottery

Cement

Furniture

Tobacco

Cereals and grains

Flour

Wood

Meat, eggs, poultry

Rolling stock

Petroleum

Chrome ores

Lead

Gypsum

Flammable materials

Cotton fabrics

Silk cocoons

Malt

Cork

Coal

Through Service Between Germany, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Turkey via Austria-Hungary

General Tariff Structure

The general tariff is divided into:

Ordinary Rates

Reduced Rates

Class I Goods

Fast Train and Goods Train Tariffs

Exceptional Tariffs

Exceptional tariffs cover a wide range of items such as:

Eggs and poultry

Live poultry

Lard

Prunes

Cereals and grains

Maize

Fresh fruit and vegetables

Ores

Tobacco

Beer

Machinery

Military rifles

Metals (iron, copper, lead)

Rolling stock

Zinc

And many other goods

Railway Tariffs and Passenger Regulations

General Information about Tariffs

All the railway tariffs include the cost of transporting a passenger’s luggage. Under tariffs * and A, the Bulgarian State Railways can issue tickets for travel to stations beyond Vienna. However, travel from Bulgaria to Vienna is covered by tariff C. For this reason, a passenger going from Sofia to London must have two separate tickets: one valid from Sofia to Vienna, and another for travel beyond Vienna.

Transport of Emigrants

The Bulgarian State Railways do not have any special rules or special prices for emigrants. Emigrants are treated the same as ordinary passengers and must buy regular tickets.

Passenger Reductions and Discounts

Groups Eligible for a 50% Reduction

A discount of 50% off the normal ticket price is offered to the following groups:

Children aged 4 to 10. No documents are required. Children under 4 travel for free if they do not occupy their own seat Local Ephesus Tour Guides.

Members of the military profession.

Students traveling individually. Students must show a certificate from their school authorities.

Seasonal workers, such as harvest workers, mowers, and masons, when traveling in groups of at least 40 people.

Members of scientific organizations, pilgrims, and theatrical groups, when traveling in parties of at least 20 people.

Railway employees, after they have already used their right to travel for free, and the members of their families. These individuals must show a card issued personally by the General Management.

Booking offices issue children’s and soldiers’ tickets without any special documents. Other categories must present the required certificates.

Students Traveling in Groups

When students travel in groups of at least 10 people and are accompanied by their teachers, they receive a 75% discount on the normal fare.

Free Travel

The following categories may travel free of charge on the State railways:

Government ministers and certain high officials.

Railway employees, in three cases:

While carrying out their official duties.

Twice a year when they are on official leave.

When they are newly appointed or dismissed.

People who may travel for free are given annual passes and special permits as proof of their right.