(ANSA) - BELGRADE, NOVEMBER 13 - The average monthly salary in Bulgaria reached 1117 BGN, approximately 571 euros, in the third quarter of 2018, which represents an increase of 7.7% compared to the same period of 2017, the Bulgarian National Statistics Institute informed, Radio Bulgaria reported. The average monthly salary however dropped 0,7% compared to the second quarter of 2018. According to NSI estimates, the highest average monthly salary in Bulgaria is currently recorded in the creation and dissemination of information, creative products and telecommunication sector (2.661 BGN, 1.361 euros), while the lowest is registered in the restaurants and hospitality sector, with 707 BGN per month (361 euros). Bulgaria is still at the bottom in the European Union for hourly labour costs, amounting in 2017 to 4,93 euros, followed by Romania with 6.33 euros. (ANSA).