Pazardzhik

Agriculture is important in the region’s economy forming a relatively small share of its operating revenues though. Total agricultural land area is 147,443 acres with 117,543 acres arable land. In 2007, number of enterprises in the agriculture, forestry and fisheries sector was 1,608 with 72 mln EUR production volume and 3,676 employed. Production of grain and leguminous plants and oilseeds; rice; vegetables, melons/watermelons, root and tuber plants; nuts, berries and other fruits; cattle for milk; poultry; and the wood industry have the largest share.

In 2007 food companies were 219 with 116 mln EUR production volume and 2,818 employed. The largest share belongs to production and processing of meat; preservingof fruit and vegetables; dairy; bread and bakery; and animal feed. Investments in digital solutions and technologies are of predominantly private nature and dependable on the economic capabilities of individual farmers.

At the regional level, there is a lack of information on the investments made and level of digitalisation achieved. The Digitisation Strategy for Agriculture and Rural Areas in Bulgaria adopted in May, 2019 is the main national-level strategic document targeting digitisation in the region based on which funding will be provided for the 2021-2027 period.

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