Public discussion on the draft-law on protection of cultural and historical heritage, held on July 29, ignited controversy over the fate of Bulgarians artifacts.

Incriminating investment in artifacts, the draft law opens the doors for crime, economist Emil Hursov said. The attempt of the state to became owner of all monuments of culture would make them part of the grey economy. "It's a law in favour of the treasure hunters and criminals in Bulgaria," he said as quoted by focus news agency.

According to archaeologist Ivan Chobanov, the annual income from illegal trafficking of artifacts amounted to 50 million leva. The draft law would allow the uncontrolled export of fine art from Bulgaria under the pressure of foreign lobbyists, he said.

Nikolai Solarov, prosecutor at the Supreme Prosecution of Cassation, said that the penalties for treasure-hunting were few and the draft law discussed did not define treasure-hunting as a crime. There were whole regions in the country where treasure-hunting was recognised as a way to make ends meet.

Bulgaria risks becoming a cultural ghetto, feeding western antique markets, member of Parliament Boiko Vatev said in a letter sent to participants in the discussion.

The second public discussion on the draft-law would be held in September, before Parliament votes on second reading.