In connection with the issued Order (No. RD-18/15.01.2026) for the implementation of a compulsory administrative measure - suspension of the activity of the chipboard production line at the site of "Kronoshpan Bulgaria" EOOD in Veliko Tarnovo, the Regional Inspectorate for Environment and Water - Veliko Tarnovo proceeds with its immediate implementation on site.

After an analysis, it was established that the document submitted by the company, designated by it as a safe shutdown plan, does not meet the content and scope of the requirement of the Regional Inspectorate for Environment and Water - Veliko Tarnovo for a safe shutdown plan within the meaning of the imposed compulsory administrative measure and the terms of the current complex permit. In the text of the document, "Kronoshpan Bulgaria" gives itself no less than 58 days to suspend the activity of the production line.

In view of this and in order to ensure the implementation of the order, the Regional Inspectorate for Environment and Water - Veliko Tarnovo, with the assistance of the Ministry of Interior bodies, is taking immediate action to stop the production process - stop the operation of the chipboard line, including the accompanying facilities.

In order to ensure the safe technical support of the shutdown process, the Regional Inspectorate for Environmental Protection - Veliko Tarnovo expects assistance from Kronospan Bulgaria EOOD in its capacity as the operator of the installation, including for the implementation of the relevant technological instructions for shutdown, in accordance with the requirements of the comprehensive permit.

The actions are carried out within the legal powers of the control authorities and are aimed at protecting the health of citizens and protecting the environment.

The shutdown of the operation of the production line at the Kronospan Bulgaria EOOD site in Veliko Tarnovo is a phased process that will last several days in order to ensure civil safety and that of the employees of the enterprise.