There were 10 Chinese FDI projects in the Bulgarian manufacturing sector recorded between January and November 2012, according to greenfield investment monitor fDi Markets. This represents a drop of almost 50% compared to 2011, when 19 such projects were recorded in the year. However, average capital expenditure was up in 2012, at $93.7m compared to $27.1m in 2011. Average job creation was also up, with Chinese companies creating an average 317 jobs per manufacturing project compared to 166 in 2011.

The largest FDI investments in the Bulgarian manufacturing sector in 2012 were by European companies, including one by Ukraine-based bus manufacturer Lviv Bus Plant, which established a base in Gabrovo, Bulgaria. Italy-based telecommunications, home automation, security and integration specialist Urmet Domus also made a significant investment in the Bulgarian manufacturing sector, opening two factories in the country and creating 1000 jobs.