Bulgaria's exports of protein-rich agricultural produce such as meat and milk is growing, according to Deputy Agriculture Minister Tsvetan Dimitrov.

Speaking on Monday, Dimitrov reiterated Ministry data showing that 17% of the Bulgaria's exports in 2010 came from agricultural products, and that it grew by 20% in 2010 year-on-year.

Bulgaria's foreign trade in agricultural products registered a positive balance of USD 1 B in 2010, he said in the northern town of Troyan at a conference on meat producing agriculture.

"There is a global shortage of high-protein foods, and a growing demand for these products; this is a market niche where Bulgarian producers can find their place," the deputy minister said.

Over 80% of Bulgaria's agricultural export goes to the rest of the EU at present, which, according to Dimitrov, demonstrates its quality and safety.

He further said that upon Bulgaria's EU accession in 2007 only 1% of the Bulgarian farms met the EU requirements, while four years later their share has reached over 50%, and by the end of 2011 all the remaining farms are expected to follow suit.

In 2010, Bulgaria's government provided BGN 109 M in agricultural subsidies, while in 2011 the money slated for subsidies is BGN 130 M.