Trajko Slaveski: Structural reforms could boost GDP by 14%

Trajko Slaveski, Governor of the National Bank, stated that structural reforms are essential to accelerating economic convergence with the European Union. Speaking at an international conference in Chisinau, Moldova, Slaveski noted that real convergence for Western Balkan countries remains slow.

Estimates suggest that implementing reforms in labor markets, human capital, the business environment, and good governance could increase the country's GDP by approximately 14%. This potential growth is contingent on closing half of the existing gap between the nation and leading economies in Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe.

Slaveski highlighted that long-term macroeconomic stability has provided a solid foundation for economic development. He also noted that trade openness reached approximately 130% of GDP in 2025, nearly doubling compared to the early transition period. To improve the investment climate and public policy efficiency, he emphasized the need for institutional reforms, the rule of law, and increased predictability.