Bulgaria’s updated national broadband infrastructure plan for next generation access
February 2020
Strategies and Action Plans
The Updated National Broadband Infrastructure Plan for Next Generation Access outlines Bulgaria’s broadband strategy, aligning it with EU policies and global technological advancements. The plan sets the foundation for Bulgaria’s digital transformation. The roadmap prioritises 5G deployment, high-speed internet access, and investment-friendly policies, aiming to position Bulgaria as a regional leader in digital connectivity while ensuring universal broadband access.
Strategic vision and goals
The overarching goal is to develop an advanced, high-speed broadband infrastructure that supports digital transformation and economic growth. The plan is structured around EU digital policies, including:
- The European Gigabit Society Strategy
- The 5G Action Plan
- The European Electronic Communications Code
Bulgaria’s broadband development aligns with the National Development Program BULGARIA 2030, particularly Priority 8: Digital Connectivity, which emphasises the importance of digital infrastructure for economic growth and regional development.
Key strategic objectives
- Universal broadband coverage:
- Expand access to broadband speeds above 30 Mbps for all households.
- Ensure 100 Mbps connectivity for urban households with potential upgrades to 1 Gbps.
- 5G deployment:
- Achieve uninterrupted 5G coverage for all urban areas and major transport corridors by 2025.
- Align national 5G deployment with the EU’s coordinated 5G Action Plan.
- Rural and remote area development:
- Bridge the digital divide by expanding broadband access in rural and sparsely populated areas.
- Leverage broadband for smart agriculture, e-commerce, and digital services.
- Network security and digital trust:
- Implement EU cybersecurity frameworks, ensuring safe and resilient broadband networks.
- Develop a national cybersecurity strategy focused on 5G security measures and risk mitigation.
Implementation roadmap
The strategy is structured around key milestones for broadband and 5G development:
| Measure | Target Year |
|---|---|
| Full broadband coverage at 30 Mbps | 2020 (already achieved) |
| 5G coverage in urban areas & transport corridors | 2025 |
| 100 Mbps upgradeable to 1 Gbps for households | 2025 |
| Expansion of public Wi-Fi (WiFi4EU initiative) | 2030 |
| Smart city infrastructure & connected services | 2030 |
Investment and regulatory measures
To facilitate private and public investment, the strategy includes:
- Simplifying administrative barriers for broadband deployment.
- Promoting spectrum-sharing for efficient 5G rollout.
- Public-private partnerships (PPP) to fund rural broadband projects.
- Ensuring regulatory stability to encourage long-term investment.
Challenges and risk mitigation
- Market inefficiencies in rural areas: Due to high infrastructure costs, the government will implement state aid mechanisms to attract investment.
- Cybersecurity risks: The government will work with ENISA (EU cybersecurity agency) to ensure secure broadband deployment.