HBOR conference highlights 150% growth in Croatian exports since 2016

At the 23rd International Conference on Export Promotion held in Zagreb, officials and business leaders discussed the impact of geopolitical shifts and the evolving global trade landscape on Croatian exporters. The event, organized by the Croatian Bank for Reconstruction and Development (HBOR), emphasized that competitiveness now relies on intensive investments in knowledge, technology, innovation, and high-value-added products.

HBOR CEO Hrvoje Čuvalo reported that the bank supported the Croatian economy with 1.65 billion euros in the first nine months of this year. Approximately 46 percent of this activity was dedicated to promoting exports. Through credits, insurance, and guarantees, HBOR directly supported exporters with 765 million euros; when including the activities of its subsidiary, Croatian Credit Insurance (HKO), total export support exceeds 1.3 billion euros.

State Secretary Matej Bule from the Ministry of Finance noted that Croatian goods exports have grown by nearly 150 percent since 2016. He highlighted the need for long-term planning and increased investment to navigate rapid changes in the business environment and geopolitical risks.