(ANSA) - BELGRADE, 08 MAG - Almost half of German companies operating in Bulgaria would like to hire new employees, but they can't find proper staff, according to a survey of the German-Bulgarian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK), Radio Bulgaria reported.

The survey, carried on among AHK members, revealed that 48% of respondents underlined problems related to the labour shortage. According to the study, the main reasons behind it are emigration, the demographical crisis and the unsatisfactory quality of the education system. A "concrete measure" to overcome the shortage of qualified staff could be to focus on the return of Bulgarian specialist workers from abroad, respondents suggested.

The survey revealed as well that 53% of respondents are satisfied with the economic environment in the country, while 72% said that they are not happy with the progress in the fight against crime and corruption.

Over 100 companies took part in the survey. (ANSA).