Economy of Bulgaria grew by 5.5 percent in 2005

Bulgaria 's gross domestic product rose by 5.5 percent in 2005 over the previous year, due mainly to the growth in industry and the services sector, the National Statistics Institute reported Friday.

Photo: Economy of Bulgaria grew by 5.5 percent in 2005

The country's GDP last year was 41.948 billion leva (21.447 billion euros; US$25.736 billion), according to preliminary data released by the institute.

The 5.5 percent economic growth was achieved mainly through the expansion of industry by 7.3 percent in 2005.

The services sector grew 6.6 percent, while the agriculture sector decreased by 8.6 percent last year.

According to the institute, GDP per capita last year was 5,420 leva (2,771 euros; US$3,443).

Bulgaria 's foreign trade deficit for 2005 remained high at 6.9 billion leva (3.5 billion euros; US$4.2 billion). Imports have increased 14.6 percent, while exports have increased only 7.2 percent, reports the AP.

D.M.