This article reviews Bulgaria’s trade relations with Servia and the United States during three five-year periods: 1890–1894, 1895–1899, and 1900–1904. The analysis focuses on imports, exports, total trade volume, and the balance of trade, as well as the main goods exchanged with each country.
Trade Between Bulgaria and Servia
Imports and Exports
Imports from Servia into Bulgaria declined steadily over time. During the first period, imports amounted to 1.06 million francs. In the second period, they decreased slightly to 1.00 million francs. By the third period, imports had fallen further to 0.87 million francs Private Istanbul Tour.
Exports from Bulgaria to Servia remained relatively low during the first two periods. They were about 286,000 francs in the first period and 274,000 francs in the second period. However, exports increased significantly during the last period, reaching 628,000 francs.
Total Trade and Balance
Total trade between the two countries was highest during the last period, at nearly 1.5 million francs. Despite the growth in exports, the balance of trade remained in favor of imports throughout all three periods.
The largest trade deficit occurred during the first period, when imports exceeded exports by about 0.8 million francs, or 73.21 percent. The deficit decreased over time, showing some improvement in Bulgaria’s trade position, although imports continued to exceed exports.
Main Articles Traded
Imports from Servia included string, ropes, hemp twine, braids, inflammable materials, wood products, furniture, knitted goods, and hides.
Exports to Servia mainly consisted of maize, cloth, serge, unwashed wool, and rice.
Trade Between Bulgaria and the United States
Imports and Exports
Trade between Bulgaria and the United States expanded rapidly over time. Imports from the United States increased from 102,000 francs in the first period to 257,000 francs in the second period. During the last period, imports reached nearly 330,000 francs.
Exports from Bulgaria to the United States grew even more strongly. They rose from 20,000 francs in the first period to 182,000 francs in the second period. During 1900–1904, exports climbed sharply to 660,000 francs.
Total Trade and Balance
Total trade between the two countries reached its highest level during the last period, amounting to nearly 990,000 francs. This growth reflects increasing commercial ties and improved access to overseas markets.
The balance of trade favored imports during the first two periods. Bulgaria recorded trade deficits of 82,000 francs and 75,000 francs, respectively. However, during the last period, the situation changed. Exports exceeded imports by 330,000 francs, giving Bulgaria a strong trade surplus of over 100 percent.
Main Articles Traded
Imports from the United States included machinery, instruments, metal goods, and textiles.
Exports to the United States mainly consisted of attar of roses and kid skins.
In conclusion, Bulgaria’s trade with Servia remained modest and import-heavy, while trade with the United States expanded rapidly and became export-driven in the early twentieth century. These patterns show Bulgaria’s growing participation in international trade beyond Europe.