ANALYSIS AND ASSESSMENT OF STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES BY GIONS IN BULGARIA

Investments in Research and Development (R&D) are a vital aspect of the modern economy and are regarded as a strategic tool for economic transformation, enhancing competitiveness, and transitioning toward a knowledge and innovation-based economy. The present study aims to identify the structural changes in R&D activities across the regions of Bulgaria and to assess their impact on the formation of the sectoral structure. By analyzing regional R&D investments and their ratio to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the study outlines development imbalances and, on this basis, derives opportunities for sustainable high-tech growth at both national and regional levels. The results reveal a pronounced concentration of scientific, research, and innovation activity in the Southwestern region where Sofia (the capital) plays a key role. The capital's share of total R&D expenditures significantly exceeds that of the other regions, which compromises the representativeness of the region at the NUTS 2 level and distorts the potential for an objective assessment of regional progress. In this context, the study substantiates the proposal for Sofia (capital) to be designated as a separate territorial unit within the NUTS 2 classification. Such a delineation would enable more precise planning of regional policies, resource allocation, and monitoring of investment effects.