[size=75:1h0lh0yj]novinite December 13, 2009

Bulgaria Authorities Hit Illegal Christmas Tree Sales

The Bulgarian Agriculture Ministry has decided to impose a BGN 1 000 fine for the illegal sale of Christmas trees, Deputy Agriculture Minister Georgi Kostov, informs.

According to Kostov, the substantial fine would stop the illegal sales.

The Deputy Minister says that the price of the trees sold legally varies between BGN 7 to 16 and if a tree is sold below BGN 4 this means it has been cut illegally.

On Sunday, Kostov verified in person two Christmas trees stands at the Sofia “Sitnyakovo” market and did not find any violations. The merchants had the necessary documentation and the required cash register.

The Deputy Minister further informed that the authorities have not yet established any violations in Christmas trees sales in Sofia, but pointed out the illegal sales are expected to emerge close to the Christmas holiday.