Bulgaria's unemployment rate dropped to 11% in May 2012 from 11.4% the previous month, according to the country's Employment Agency.

Bulgaria's employment offices listed a total of 360 114 unemployed persons in April 2012, 13 410 fewer than a month earlier.

A total of 24 352 people found jobs over the month, a 4 213 increase year on year.

In May, more jobs became available in manufacturing, tourism and employment and programmes funded by the European Union and state budget took off.

The largest number of new jobs in Bulgaria in April 2012 was created by the processing industry – 3 759, followed by trade – 2 158, hotel and restaurant business – 1 608, agriculture – 1 335, and transport – 850.