Slovenia Business Partner 2023

06 MATJAŽ HAN, SLOVENIAN MINISTER FOR THE ECONOMY, TOURISM AND SPORT COMMITTED TO TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION

16 TILEN REBEC, DIRECTOR, SRC DOO BELGRADE A RELIABLE PARTNER FOR THREE DECADES

10 H.E. DAMJAN BERGANT, AMBASSADOR OF SLOVENIA TO SERBIA EUROPEAN IDENTITY ABOVE NATIONALITY

17 IGOR DODIĆ, LAWYER, LAW OFFICE DODIĆ-ĐURIĆ-DABIĆ

SOLAR IS NO LONGER THE FUTURE, IT'S NOW

14 MIHAILO VESOVIĆ, DIRECTOR OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY OF SERBIA’S DIVISION FOR STRATEGIC ANALYSES, SERVICES AND INTERNATIONALISATION GOOD POLICIES & ECONOMIC COOPERATION GO HAND-IN-HAND

IMPRESSUM

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Neda Lukić n.lukic@aim.rs

ART DIRECTOR

Branislav Ninković

b.ninkovic@aim.rs

PHOTOS

Zoran Petrović

COPY EDITOR

Mark Pullen mrpeditorial@mail.com

PROJECT MANAGERS

Biljana Dević

b.devic@aim.rs

Mihailo Čučković

m.cuckovic@aim.rs

Renata Šteković Zagorac

r.zagorac@aim.rs

OFFICE MANAGER

Svetlana Petrović s.petrovic@aim.rs

FINANCE

Dragana Skrobonja finance@aim.rs

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Maja Vidaković m.vidakovic@aim.rs

DIRECTOR

Ana Novčić a.novcic@aim.rs a.novcic@cordmagazine.com

PUBLISHER

Ivan Novčić i.novcic@aim.rs

DANIJELA FIŠAKOV, PRESIDENT OF THE SLOVENIAN BUSINESS CLUB

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CLEAR VISION FOR A PROSPEROUS FUTURE

23 BOGDAN GAVRILOVIĆ, MANAGING DIRECTOR, WORLD TRANSPORT OVERSEAS NEW ENERGY, NEW VICTORIES

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ALEŠ LESKOŠEK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COMTRADE SYSTEM INTEGRATION SLOVENIA FIRST CHOICE IN THE ADRIATIC REGION

24 20 YEARS OF THE SLOVENIAN BUSINESS CLUB PILLAR OF SUPPORT AND THE PRIDE OF ITS MEMBERS

22 FRAGMAT INSULATION EXPERTS

28 ALPINE SKI MUSEUM

SLOVENIA: AT THE HEART OF THE HISTORY OF SKIING

30 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF ANTON JANŠA BEEKEEPING PIONEER IMMORTALISED BY A UN DAY

32 PREDJAMA THE WORLD’S LARGEST CAVE CASTLE

PRINTING Rotografika d.o.o. Segedinski put 72, Subotica SLOVENIA 2023 Published

Fostering Prosperous Relations: SERBIA AND SLOVENIA'S PATH TO MUTUAL SUCCESS

ThesuccessofrelationsbetweenSerbiaandSloveniacanbeattributed,amongother things,tobothcountries’progressinestablishingrobustpoliticalinstitutionsand marketeconomies,leadingtomutuallybeneficialpartnerships.Inordertofurther enhancetheircollaboration,SerbiashouldprioritiseacceleratingitsEUintegration processwithSloveniansupportandassistance

ambassador to Serbia, Damjan Bergant, has expressed Slovenia's willingness to assist Serbia on its path to EU integration. In order to achieve this end, Serbia needs to overcome obstacles that hinder its accession.

In the book Why Nations Fail, economists Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson argue that a nation's wealth and prosperity depend on its political and economic institutions, rather than on external factors like climate or geography. Strong and inclusive institutions, such as a well-functioning government and market system, facilitate investment and provide a sense of security. This leads to economic growth and development, as both domestic and foreign investors are encouraged to allocate resources efficiently. Transparent legal frameworks, property rights and fair market competition attract foreign businesses, as well as fostering collaboration and prosperous

relations between countries.

The success of bilateral relations between Serbia and Slovenia can be attributed to the establishment of mutually beneficial partnerships and collaborations based on their progress in creating good political institutions and market economies, albeit with varying degrees of success and at varying tempos. As a result, there has been a positive impact on trade, exchanges of knowledge and cultural understanding between the two countries.

However, there is still room to improve these successful collaborations. Various stakeholders offer insights into how to achieve further progress. Slovenia's

As suggested by other interlocutors, in terms of economic relations, Serbia can create a more favourable investment environment by reducing administrative barriers, streamlining procedures and clarifying laws. Furthermore, efforts aimed at strengthening the rule of law and the struggle against corruption, while enhancing personal and business legal security, will deepen bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Additionally, increased investment in Serbia’s infrastructure would attract investors, while providing more support to small and medium-sized enterprises and enhancing Serbia's appeal as a business destination.

Serbia and Slovenia's successful relations are based on mutually beneficial partnerships, resulting in positive impacts on trade, exchanges of knowledge and cultural understanding

Committed to Technological

DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION

SLOVENIAN MINISTER FOR THE ECONOMY, TOURISM AND SPORT MATJAŽ HAN

Our objective is to foster a competitive business environment, promote entrepreneurship and innovation, and address challenges facing society. Achieving this requires integrating research, education and businesses. While that may sound simple, it is actually a challenging task to accomplish

Matjaž Han, Minister for the Economy, Tourism, and Sport of the Republic of Slovenia, recently announced significant interventions to ensure that Slovenia remains well-prepared for the changes to the structure of global trade and the transition to Economy 4.0. We therefore took this opportunity to discuss all of these long-term advancements in order to

better understand their scope and impact on the region, and Serbia in particular.

■ You’ve mentioned the reform of legislation as being one of the major lines of action for your Ministry. Can you provide examples of specific legislative reforms you

REGION CREDIBILITY BREAKTHROUGH

Given the Western Balkan countries’ status as important trade and investment partners, our objective is to further enhance economic relations and strengthen our mutual ties

The Slovenian Business Club is a trusted and valued organisation in the business community and a credible and highquality player on the business landscape

plan to undertake in order to improve the legislative framework for businesses?

- The Ministry of the Economy, Tourism, and Sport in Slovenia has a plan to support a favourable environment for businesses. One of our important actions is to update the Prevention of Restriction of Competition Act. This update will incorporate two EU regulations that aim to enhance transparency and fair competition in online intermediation services and the digital sector. This amendment will give more authority to our national competition authority, which will enforce these regulations and ensure that all businesses have an equal opportunity to succeed in these areas.

In addition, our ministry, along with other ministries and agencies, is actively working on two regulatory reforms. The first reform focuses on digitising our Company Law and simplifying registration procedures for businesses. By embracing digitalisation, we aim to streamline registration processes and enable the use of electronic identification and other digital tools. This reform seeks to enhance the Slovene business environment, rendering it more efficient and accessible for entrepreneurs. The second reform focuses on streamlining registration procedures for businesses in the primary and business registers. It includes digitising procedures, harmonising cross-border merger rules and allowing electronic and virtual meetings for joint-stock companies. These changes will encourage the digitalisation of business processes and promote fair competition.

In addition to our significant exports to EU member states, we are implementing additional measures to enhance our international reach by exploring new markets

Another approach to boost value added is investing in strategic national projects, particularly in the green and digital transformation of the automotive industry. For instance, the government recently pledged 200 million euros for the GREen MObility Mission, which complements other state investments in the automotive sector. These investments, combined with business innovation, are expected to contribute to higher value-added per employee in the industry.

■ What strategies will be implemented to place Slovenia among the group of countries that are innovation leaders? Do you see possible synergies in the region?

- I have already mentioned the Slovenian Industrial Strategy 2021-2030, which is all about making Slovenia an innovation leader. We want to create a competitive business environment and to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, as well as tackling societal challenges! We focus on going green, being creative and embracing digital development. This sounds simple and logical, but to stay ahead of the game in this rapidly changing world, you need to bring together research, education and businesses. As you know, this is far from being simple – it is a highly complex process!

The World Handball Championship, which was held in Slovenia last year, generated a remarkable economic return of 1.7 euros for every euro invested. Such sporting events not only have a significant impact on tourism through international promotion, but also align well with our portfolio

That is why we are supporting companies at different stages and levels with technological investments, encouraging new ideas and even helping with the employment of researchers. We are also offering various measures to support companies on their innovation journey. Overall, the ultimate goal is to ensure that businesses can thrive in this rapidly evolving world.

■ How do you envisage Slovenia achieving its objective of generating 100,000 euros of added value per employee by 2030? What steps will be taken to increase the ambition of the business sector?

- We have developed several strategic documents, including the Slovenian Development Strategy 2030, Slovenia’s Sustainable Smart Specialisation Strategy S5 and the Slovenian Industrial Strategy 20212030. Our main goal outlined in these strategies is to increase the value added per employee by improving productivity. To achieve this, the government is increasing funding for innovation and knowledge. We are committed to technological development and innovation, which is why our government has just signed a historic agreement for strategic cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce, independent research institutes and the Rectors’ Conference. Our common goal is to increase public and private funds for research and innovation to at least 2.8 per cent of GDP by 2027.

■ Could you provide more details about plans to strengthen internationalisation and economic diplomacy? How are your plans being impacted by current trends, such as the geographical repositioning of global value chains, rising tension between the U.S. and China, and other global developments? Where doe Serbia and the region stand with regard to this plan?

- It is a fact that global changes are impacting the Slovenian economy, as we are an export-oriented economy with high dependency on global trends. In order to adapt, we are focusing on diversifying our exports and increasing the value added per employee. While our exports to EU member states are already significant, we are taking extra measures to further internationalise by exploring new markets and establishing diplomatic missions accordingly. The objectives outlined in the Programme for the Promotion of Investment and Internationalisation of

the Slovenian Economy include enhancing the resilience and competitiveness of Slovenian companies, expanding exports to third-country markets and increasing the export focus of businesses, capitalising on high-tech niche markets. We are also attracting foreign direct investment, promoting Slovenian investment abroad and improving the visibility of the Slovenian economy in global markets.

Through various measures, we have been promoting investment and the internationalisation of Slovenian green, creative and smart products and services in specific breakthrough and priority areas. I believe this helps to improve the positioning of the Slovenian economy in high-value-added segments of resilient value chains.

The Western Balkan countries are our important trade and investment partners, which is why we aim to continue strengthening our economic relations through various projects and programmes.

We are committed to technological development and innovation, which is why our government has just signed a historic agreement for strategic cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce, independent research institutes and the Rectors’ Conference

We are actively implementing the Scientific Research and Innovation Strategy of Slovenia 2030 in order to position Slovenia as an innovation leader. We are also collaborating with neighbouring countries to leverage synergies in the region. These collaborations aim to promote joint research projects and exchanges of knowledge, and to facilitate the mobility of researchers. We have additionally established the Public Agency for Scientific Research and Innovation Activity, which actively supports technological development and facilitates knowledge transfers within the innovation sector.

■ Would you comment on the role of the Slovenian Business Club, which is this year commemorating its 20th anniversary in Serbia, when it comes to the development of the economies of both countries?

- The Slovenian Business Club is a trusted and valued organisation in the business community. It has grown significantly over the past decade and offers assistance with market implementation. The Club has a positive reputation and fosters strong cooperation and connections between countries. It contributes to the competitiveness of the economies and facilitates a joint presence on other markets through various events and meetings. In summary, it is a credible and highquality player on the business landscape.

■ In the field of tourism, how do you plan to increase the quality of services and subsequently added value? What measures are needed to enable the more efficient development of tourism and hospitality services?

- To put it short and sweet, the Slovenian Tourism Strategy 2022-2028 aims to enhance and benefit tourism through stakeholder cooperation. The vision is “Green boutiques. A smaller footprint. Greater value for all”. It focuses on five goals: quality and year-round offer; satisfied

residents, employees and guests; positioning tourism for value and sustainable development; decarbonisation and balance; and, lastly, efficient management. To achieve this, the Strategy includes 94 measures across 23 policy areas, supported by strategic and horizontal policies.

■ Sport became part of your portfolio as of January this year. Could you elaborate on the potential synergic effects between the economy, tourism and sport? How do you plan to leverage these synergies?

- As you know, Slovenia and Serbia signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in sport in 2015. Regarding the synergic effect, we can start at the end with sport, which, according to recent studies, is a multiplier for the economy. Each euro invested in the World Handball Championship that was held in Slovenia last year produced 1.7 euros of economic return. This kind of sporting event also has a high impact on tourism, by way of international promotions, as well as on the sports or sport-related industry, which in Slovenia particularly developed in medium-sized or small companies and entrepreneurs.

■ What specific actions will your ministry take to promote sports tourism and increase the construction of sports infrastructure?

- In the medium term, our focus is on three pillars. Firstly, the National Programme of Sport 2024-2033 will prioritise sports tourism, sustainability and green initiatives. Secondly, we have allocated 150 million euros through a special law for investment in sports infrastructure from 2023-2027, ensuring safety, sustainability and energy-saving standards. Lastly, we will introduce new legislation to organise and co-finance major sporting events, promoting tourism and health-enhancing activities.

European Identity

ABOVE NATIONALITY

H.E. DAMJAN BERGANT

Slovenia is ready to assist Serbia on all issues related to the European integration process, says Slovenian Ambassador H.E.

Damjan Bergant in this interview for CorD Magazine

Responding to the increasingly prevalent question of whether recognition of Kosovo's independence represents a precondition for Serbia's EU accession, he presents the view that it is essential “for Serbia to normalise relations with Kosovo”. In this context, Belgrade must endeavour to be as cooperative as possible and to act in good faith in order for the normalisation agreement to be implemented under the shortest possible timeframe. Understanding the idea of the EU means understanding that the individual is at the centre, and not the nation, says the ambassador, explaining his contention that “the worst enemy of the EU is nationalism”, which he also

recognises in Serbia, where “individuals are currently inclined more towards nationalism than the European perspective”.

■ Your Excellency, given that you arrived in Serbia almost three years ago, it could be said that you are approaching the culmination of your mandate. How would you rate relations between Slovenia and Serbia from your personal perspective?

- Slovenia and Serbia cooperate well and have excellent relations. This doesn’t mean we can’t further strengthen our cooperation, which is

AMBASSADOR OF SLOVENIA TO SERBIA

HOMEWORK RELATIONSHIPS EU

We want Serbia to advance on its path to EU accession, which means Serbia diligently doing its homework and resolving all issues that currently represent obstacles to its EU accession

I can say that relationships between states are the same as relationships between people. They require a transparent, two-way approach

actually our task, and one that I think we are performing well. We want Serbia to advance on its path to EU accession, which means Serbia diligently doing its homework and resolving all issues that currently represent obstacles to its EU accession. That would further deepen our bilateral cooperation. There should be no need to repeat that Slovenia is always ready to help Serbia on issues related to the EU.

■ You stated at the beginning of your mandate in Belgrade that you would also dedicate yourself to supporting Slovenes who live in Serbia. How would you rate their position?

- Slovenes in Serbia are generally very well organised. These are Serbian people with Slovenian roots, some of whom have Slovenian citizenship and work in individual companies. These associations are important because they secure the preservation of identity and promote the Slovenian culture and language. The embassy is in constant contact with all such associations and offers them assistance. There are also many Slovenians living in Serbia, most of whom work here as businesspeople. We are also a great pillar of support to them and offer to help them when required. In short, the Embassy strives to perform its tasks to the best of its abilities. I hope that is also seen and appreciated by Slovenians.

Serbian citizens still haven’t realised that being an EU citizen is an upgraded annex to being a Serbian citizen and that, as a result of Serbian becoming an EU member state, Serbian society, like every individual, will only gain and won’t lose anything

don’t differentiate between Serbs who live and work in Slovenia and Serbs who live and work in other EU member states. For example, there are many more Serbs living in Germany or Austria, and no questions or demands are being made of these countries regarding the recognition of the Serbian minority.

■ Slovenia is among Serbia's most important economic partners. The existing group of 1,500 Slovenian companies was recently joined by another one, with the acquisition of the Serbian glassworks in Paraćin. You’ve said that Slovenian business interests are currently directed towards construction. What are they interested in the most?

When Serbia is one day in the EU, and its neighbouring countries are also there, all Serbs will live under one flag – the European flag – and in a democratic environment based on the rule of law and respect for individual human rights

■ Does the space exist to improve the position of Serbs in Slovenia, who still haven’t been granted the status of a national minority that they desire?

- It is also necessary in this instance to clearly distinguish between two categories. One represents Slovenians with Serbian roots, while the other relates to Serbian nationals working in Slovenia. Regardless of status, Slovenia provides for the protection of the rights and freedoms of all individuals, in accordance with the Constitution and laws. Everyone can use their own language and practice their own culture. Young people with Serbian roots have the opportunity to learn the Serbian language in Slovenia, while at the same time they all represent a valued part of Slovenian society. According to the Slovenian Constitution, there are two autochthonous national communities in the country: Italian and Hungarian, who also have their own representatives in the Parliament. Apart from that, there is also a Roma community that is represented at the local level. All other nations and nationalities have, as noted, rights that are harmonised with international conventions. Serbs reside throughout the entire country of Slovenia and are not confined to a specific geographical area, as is the case with representatives of the Italian and Hungarian communities, who were already living in those areas before the creation of the independent Slovenia. In Slovenia, we

- That’s right, the legendary Paraćin glassworks – after many years of tribulations for that very important company; the only factory producing glass packaging in the wider region, and a factory with huge potential – has been taken over by international company Global Glass, which also owns Staklarna Hrastnik [glass manufacturer based in Hrastnik, Slovenia]. This holding company has serious customers and an ambitious business agenda, so it is planning major investments in the Paraćin glassworks, which could become the main engine of the holding company. We are very glad that Slovenian management and Slovenian knowledge and experience can once again elevate the Paraćin glassworks to the position it once held and which its workers deserve.

Alongside that investment, which is a de jure Swiss investment, albeit with Slovenian knowhow and management, there is also great interest in projects in the area of ecology and green energy – primarily in terms of the announced major and important projects to build waste processing and recycling centres, sewage systems, wastewater treatment plants and renewable energy sources, in which the Slovenian economy once again has a wealth of experience and knowhow, as well as capital to invest. We find it regrettable that this area is developing slowly, because these projects were announced three years ago, but plans were disrupted by economic cycles, the pandemic and other priorities. We hope that the Serbian market will recognise the added value of Slovenian companies that can be of great importance for the realisation of the noted projects, and that they will receive an opportunity to prove themselves.

■ How far have talks progressed on the announced joint modernisation of the Belgrade-Ljubljana railway?

- From our side, as far as I know, there are no obstacles to the development of rail traffic. However, I’m not acquainted with the situation in Serbia and Croatia.

■ Are you satisfied with the level of cooperation achieved in the areas of education and culture?

- I am extremely satisfied with what the two countries are doing in the field of culture. I’m happy that so many exchanges exist between artists and it delights me every time we are informed, for example, about the performances and concerts of Slovenian artists in Serbia. If they ask for help, we will happily help them as much as we can. In any case, it is necessary to continue cooperation on the cultural front at the same tempo.

■ You stated recently that the road from Belgrade to Brussels could go via Ljubljana. Referring to a possible partnership on the road to Europe, you added “but only on condition that they cooperate equally and without envy”. Could you elaborate a little on what you meant?

- Slovenia has supported Serbia on its path to EU accession from the very outset and intends to continue doing so. As I said, the question, of course, is how much Slovenian help Serbia will want. It is not proper or decent for Slovenia to impose aid. At the same time, Slovenia, as an EU member state, can always be a great advocate for Serbia in Brussels. Being well acquainted with Serbia and the other countries of the Western Balkans, Slovenia can contribute a lot to discussions in Brussels, in a positive sense. And my statement that the road from Serbia to Brussels could lead via Ljubljana was also made in that context. When it comes to the second part of your question, I can say that relationships between states are the same as relationships between people. They require a transparent, two-way approach. If we want to do business in such a way, there is no room to open issues that could harm relations.

It is essential for Serbia to normalise relations with Kosovo. In this context, it must endeavour to be as cooperative as possible and to act in good faith in order for the normalisation agreement to also be implemented under the shortest possible timeframe. Of course, not everything depends on Serbia

aren’t doing enough on this topic, while there are even individuals who often do the opposite. Statements claiming that the EU doesn’t want Serbia as a member are untrue and deceptive.

■ This July will mark 10 years since the launch of the Brdo-Brioni regional initiative, which was intended to strengthen ties in the Western Balkans and fortify the European perspective of the region. How do you see the reach of that initiative?

- That initiative has certainly helped, and continues to help, on cooperation between countries in this domain. It is good that Slovenia was the initiator of this initiative, as it is very familiar with the region and has a reputation in certain countries. Whatever the case, Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar wants to continue with the initiative and hopes that she will receive the support of all countries participating in this initiative. This isn’t a duplication of other similar initiatives, but rather something that can only help in terms of addressing unresolved issues in the region and can serve to assist in advancing the European integration aspirations of the countries of this region.

■ You assessed that “the biggest enemy of the EU is nationalism, and I’m afraid that individuals in Serbia are currently inclined more towards nationalism than the European perspective”. Where do you see that nationalism in Serbia?

■ You are among the diplomats who often say that Serbia will be a future part of the EU. How do you interpret the waning enthusiasm for that process among Serbian citizens?

- Serbian citizens generally aren’t familiar with what the EU actually offers or how Serbia’s EU membership would impact on them and Serbian society. They mostly have a mistaken idea that, by becoming an EU member, Serbia will have to give up certain things that mark Serbian statehood and transfer certain elements and sovereignty elsewhere.

They actually still haven’t realised that being an EU citizen is an upgraded annex to being a Serbian citizen and that, as a result of Serbian becoming an EU member state, Serbian society, like every individual, will only gain and won’t lose anything. When citizens grasp and understand this, support for EU membership will also increase. However, in order for that to happen it is necessary to launch a joint campaign by the EU and especially the authorities in Serbia. Unfortunately, in my opinion, others

- That is particularly so in the statements of individuals who directly or indirectly speak about the notion of all Serbs being within one country and the like. There is no place for such ideas in modern times. This also isn’t the European way of thinking, where belonging to Europe is considered as being above national belonging. The individual is the central point of protection, not the nation. The revival of the idea of changing borders on the basis of nationalism leads to collapse and further conflicts and wars. That’s why it is absolutely essential that we all fight together to achieve European standards. When Serbia is one day in the EU, and its neighbouring countries are also there, all Serbs will live under one flag – the European flag – and in a democratic environment based on the rule of law and respect for individual human rights.

■ Will Serbia have to accept Kosovo's independence if it wants to accelerate the EU accession process?

- It is essential for Serbia to normalise relations with Kosovo. In this context, it must endeavour to be as cooperative as possible and to act in good faith in order for the normalisation agreement to also be implemented under the shortest possible timeframe. Of course, not everything depends on Serbia.

MIHAILO VESOVIĆ, DIRECTOR OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY OF SERBIA’S DIVISION FOR STRATEGIC ANALYSES, SERVICES AND INTERNATIONALISATION

Good Policies & Economic Cooperation GO HAND-IN-HAND

Intensified political cooperation and the strengthening of mutual trust also has a favourable impact on the volume of economic cooperation, with Serbia ranking among the top countries in terms of the volume of Slovenian investments, while in recent times there has also been an increase in the flow of Serbian investments heading to Slovenia

The trade exchange between Serbia and Slovenia totalled 1.7 billion euros in 2022, which was up 292 million euros, or 20.7%, on 2021. Exports of Serbian products to Slovenia last year were worth 738.9 million euros, representing 54.1 million euros (or 7.9%) less than was achieved in 2021. The value of imports reached 957.1 million euros in 2022, which marks an increase of 237.8 million euros (or 33%) compared to 2021. The increase in goods imports from Slovenia in 2022 exceeded the increase in Serbia’s exports to this market, and thus the trade deficit with Slovenia stood at 218.2 million euros, after having totalled just 34.5 million euros in 2021.

Exports to Slovenia in the first quarter of the current year were slightly lower than the total recorded in Q1 2022 (down 2.6 million euros), while imports from Slovenia were up by approximately 3.6 million euros, thus the mutual trade exchange in the observed period of this year is almost the same as in 2022. These statistics were presented by Mihailo

Vesović, Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia’s Division for Strategic Analyses, Services and Internationalisation, in this CorD Magazine interview.

■ How much has cooperation between the two countries proved resilient against the global economic crisis of the last few years?

- There has been a noticeable upward trend in the trade exchange between Serbia and Slovenia over the last five years, with just a slight decrease in that exchange recorded in 2019. Expressed in percentages, this exchange has grown annually by between five per cent and as much as 20 per cent. The foreign trade balance was positive for Serbia during 2018 and 2019, while Serbia has had a trade deficit with Slovenia since 2017. The Covid-19 pandemic showed that all companies that were able to reorient their operations to the markets closest to them geographically

SUPPORT ADVANTAGES OPPORTUNITIES

The Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Serbia, with its numerous activities, assists in the internationalisation of its members and their appearance on foreign markets, while it will soon have its own representative in Slovenia again

Serbia is the region’s most attractive investment destination, on the basis of its physical and geographical characteristics, market size, free trade agreements and investor support system

suffered the fewest shocks and recovered the quickest following the end of the crisis. A significant number of Serbian and Slovenian companies operated on both markets.

As an illustration of the volume of business cooperation between the two countries, we note that there were 4,409 Serbian companies registered as doing business with Slovenia in 2020, while that number increased to 4,502 during 2022.

Some 1,050 companies that are majority owned by registered enterprises or private individuals from the Republic of Slovenia were actively operating in Serbia during 2020, while in 2022 that figure rose to 1,066.

■ We often explain the success of joint cooperation between Serbia and Slovenia as being due to the fact that we once formed parts of the same country. How relevant to good cooperation is that shared past today, and how much can it be attributed to new relations that have been built by two independent countries?

- Trade cooperation between Serbia and Slovenia unfolds without major difficulties and is recording growth as a result of numerous factors, such as geographic proximity, a language barrier that’s only slight, brand recognition from the period of the shared country among consumers on both markets, and the significant Serbian labour diaspora in Slovenia.

Diplomatic relations between the two independent countries officially began to be established on 9th December 2000. Relations between Serbia and Slovenia are extremely good, friendly and intense, with cooperation unfolding in many areas and at multiple levels, while commercial and political contacts are frequent and regular.

Slovenia actively supports Serbia’s accession to the European Union. It was during the Slovenian Presidency of the Council of the EU that the Stabilisation and Association Agreement with Serbia was signed. Slovenia contributed significantly to visa liberalisation for Serbian citizens and was among the main advocates for a formal date to mark the launch of negotiations on Serbia’s EU accession.

■ Slovenian companies were among the first European firms to invest in Serbia’s automotive and food industries. Considering the large influx of powerful foreign players in these sectors, where are opportunities to improve cooperation emerging today?

- The number of Slovenian companies operating in Serbia’s automotive industry is not large, but they manage to represent a serious player in the market competition despite their small number. Over the last decade, the automotive industry has been marked by the advent and accelerated growth of the electric mobility trend. Serbia is unfortunately lagging behind in this trend, but that’s precisely why great space exists to advance and expand operations.

The state policy for attracting foreign investments was previously aimed at reducing unemployment, and it succeeded in that, while today it has shifting towards investments with greater added value

Serbia has a very well-developed metal processing sector and mechanical engineering industry, which have for years represented some of the leading industrial branches and the primary pillars of Serbia’s processing industry. Thanks to their quality and potential, they have become widely recognisable on the global market. That’s why this sector provides an unlimited array of possibilities to expand and improve cooperation.

The agriculture sectors that are favourable for investment include: the production and processing of fruits and vegetables; the production of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; the confectionery industry, bakery and milling industry, meat and milk production and processing and fisheries.

■ When it comes to the EU’s average GDP, Slovenia has reached a level of 88 per cent, while Serbia stands at 42 per cent. Do Slovenian investors still view Serbia as a place with a competitive workforce or are we also something more than that?

- The cost of labour in Serbia is significantly below the European average, so that was among the factors that made our market attrac-

The sectors in which the Slovenian and Serbian economies are very well-connected and compatible are primarily agriculture and the food industry, the metal industries, the sectors of tourism services and information technology (IT), which can contribute to increasing economic cooperation between Serbia and Slovenia

tive to foreign investors. However, Serbia has a negative demographic trend and that represents a sustainability risk for the economic system, while cheap labour is not, and can no longer be, Serbia’s advantage. Many areas of business are marked by labour shortages, such as the manufacturing industry, while some service sectors in Serbia would be unable to function without temporary workers, such as construction, hospitality and transport.

The labour force problem cannot be solved by low labour costs coupled with the influx of foreign workers. We don’t see the competitiveness of the Serbian labour force as being reflected in it being inexpensive, but rather in its good price-quality ratio. High-quality labour must also have a reasonable market price.

We would also emphasise that Belgrade is not only the capital of Serbia, but also the economic centre of the region; that the influx of immigrants from Eastern Europe is a great opportunity for our economy and that ever more of our citizens are returning to Serbia.

A Reliable Partner FOR THREE DECADES

Withmorethan300experts,1,600completedprojectsand1,200clients,SRChas,forthreefull decades,beenhelpingcorporations,financialinstitutionsandthestateachieveefficiencyby digitalisingandautomatingbusinessprocesses

By establishing a comprehensive digital transaction management system, we help clients replace outdated and inefficient processes - says Tilen Rebec, explaining that this eliminates human error, ensures resource control and data security, and improves reputation and visibility.

■ Does the expression 'digitalisation of business processes' epitomise what SRC does?

- SRC helps users digitalise business processes – we focus on automating business processes, which brings immediate savings, speeds up procedures and reduces the possibility of human error. We help users in the complete digital transformation of the company, with the emphasis not on the digitalisation of old business processes, but on newly defined processes that are completely digital and based on the opportunities brought by modern IT technology.

■ Are the quality of its solutions and client satisfaction the best recommendation for SRC?

- It is important to say that SRC has been on the market for more than 30 years, which gives customers a safe choice. Given the breadth of our knowledge in this domain, we offer clients much more than a specific project – a strategic partnership through which we help the company in its digital transformation, in understanding the role of the latest technologies and their impact on business, and in introducing new technologies into the client's environment in a way that gives them a competitive advantage and reduces costs.

■ Do your solutions have measurable business, technical and financial benefits?

- The advantages are perhaps easiest to measure in the financial sector, and this is where we have been most active in recent years. From a business perspective, we enable clients to use digital technologies to develop new business models, which bring new sources of income. The best example is precisely our banking solutions, the financial sector, which through digitalisation, process automation, improvement of existing and support of new processes, products and sales channels, provide our clients with much greater and easily measurable agility. This provides them with stability and long-term support in their business development and, crucially, with space for the development of new business ideas, without doubting whether they will be put into practice. In terms of technology, solutions and implementation of the right IT technologies, SRC enables users to conduct efficient and secure digital business, based on the principles of availability, security and privacy.

The digitalisation of existing processes and newly designed fully digital processes bring great savings on the cost of human resources and speed everything up because processes take place in minutes instead of days, costs are reduced by optimising existing processes and developing new ones. Digitalisation also provides competitive advantages, improves business agility and reduces inefficiencies by simplifying procedures and increasing operational efficiency, not to forget increasing customer engagement by improving the availability and visibility of data to assist in making decisions.

The emphasis is on newly defined and completely digital business processes that exploit opportunities brought by modern IT technology

Solar Is No Longer THE FUTURE, IT'S NOW

LawofficeDodić∙Đurić∙Dabićstrivesforlong-termcooperationwithclientstofind optimal legal and market solutions. They enjoy working together on legal issues and are sure that this is reflected in the quality of the service they provide

Based on rich experience gained in representing companies in the construction, energy, trade, IT and insurance sectors, our guest comments on market trends and speaks optimistically about the economic situation in the country

■ You represent leading companies in the fields of insurance, energy, construction, IT and trade. How do you see the economic situation in Serbia?

- Besides the stability we see in Serbia, partnership and cooperation are needed in all branches of industry. A real example is our clients in insurance who provide a huge help to industry by constantly adapting their products to the needs. For example, general and professional liability insurance in the IT sector is becoming ever more common, covering unforeseen costs and errors that may occur in business. In this way it provides protection to both the IT company and its clients. Cyber security and the protection of personal data are essential today, so cyber insurance is also necessary. That is why it is important that the insurance market is stable and growing.

■ How do you assess the state of the real estate market in Serbia?

- One of the main drivers of industry is the construction sector, so it is important it remain at the level of the previous two years to maintain economic activity. Inflation has had the greatest impact on the growth of real estate prices. On

the other hand, buyers have behaved rationally, because the best escape from inflation lies in buying real estate. In the previous year, there was a decrease in the number of building permits issued, an increase in the price of construction materials, energy sources, higher prices for loans and slower construction, so we

can expect prices to calm down. Real estate prices have not yet fallen. We expect price growth to stagnate, with a slight decline. There will not be a big drop in prices, because no recession is expected.

The demand for business space will remain high, because Serbia lacks business space both for sale and rent. It is the right time to invest in the building and purchase of office space because the demand for it is high and stable, as businesspeople from all over Europe are coming to the Serbian market.

■ Based on your experience, do you think that Serbia is a suitable place to build solar power plants?

- Solar power plants are no longer the future, but the present. Investing in a solar power plant is safe, and the risk is very low. The potential for using solar energy in Serbia is high as there are plenty of sunny days. It is possible to install solar panels on the roof of a building or to build a power plant on a separate plot. Solar panels have no moving parts and require little maintenance, and you can see how the prices of solar panels are falling from year to year. The investment return time is from five to seven years, and the lifespan of solar equipment is over 20 years. This is the cleanest form of energy produced today with no environmental pollution. Serbia has done everything necessary for the construction of solar power plants by passing laws, and state incentives are expected, so it is the right time to invest in solar.

The demand for business space is high and stable, as businesspeople from all over Europe are coming to the Serbian market

CLEAR VISION FOR A PROSPEROUS FUTURE

DANIJELA FIŠAKOV

The Slovenian Business Club (SBC) will continue, as it has over the past 20 years, to promote investments and business opportunities, and to provide support to its members in their business. It is set to become an even stronger and more influential business actor in Serbia, Slovenia and the region over the next 10 years, with a strong network of contacts and partnerships

The Slovenian Business Club is this year commemorating its 20th anniversary, which is undoubtedly an impressive achievement for any organisation. Over these two decades, the SBC has demonstrated many qualities that have contributed to its longevity and vitality.

“The essence of business clubs lies in the building of strong networks and the forging of connections between members. Open communication, exchanges of experience and the establishing of business connections contribute to increasing the SBC’s worth and significance. The Slovenian Business Club has succeeded in building a strong network of members who cooperate actively, support one another and provide a significant contribution to its vitality,” says Slovenian Business Club President Danijela Fišakov.

Over the course of its existence to date, the SBC has managed to regularly organise numerous interesting and useful events. The Club’s work encompasses various activities, ranging from “one-to-one” work all the way to the organising of extremely well-attended business conferences, seminars, workshops, panel debates, social events and other initiatives.

Throughout these 20 years, the SBC has worked with devotion to retain its members’ support and ensure their participation in its work,

PRESIDENT OF THE SLOVENIAN BUSINESS CLUB

COOPERATION IMPROVEMENT DEVELOPMENT

SBC membership today includes not only Slovenian companies that operate in Serbia, but significantly and increasingly Serbian companies that want to cooperate with Slovenian companies and also to invest in Slovenia

Improving the business climate in Serbia depends mostly on the state’s attitude to this matter and its focus on the creating of an environment favourable for investment. And room for improvement exists

constantly delivering value to its membership. These valued takeaways are varied and members find them through the obtaining of information and expert advice, the creating of business opportunities, access to resources or some other form of support.

“In order to remain relevant throughout all these years, the SBC didn’t only have to adapt its activities and programmes to changes in the economic and social environment, but also, I would emphasise, to the specific needs of its members. And the SBC proved very successful and innovative in making these adaptations,” adds our interlocutor

■ This year will also mark 10 years since you took the helm of the SBC. What is your vision for the next 10 years? How should SBC develop further?

- I am a great advocate for cooperation and connection between businesspeople from Slovenia and Serbia, and further afield. One important priority is to further develop the network of contacts and connections between business leaders and business organisations from Slovenia and Serbia, in order to strengthen existing business relationships and create new ones. It is to this end that we organise gatherings and events that provide businesspeople with an opportunity to meet, exchange ideas and establish new business connections. The SBC will play an increasingly important role in promoting investment opportunities in the region.

Cooperation with other business clubs and associations around the region will also strengthen. The SBC will focus on creating partnerships with other business clubs in the region and on exchanges of experience and best practices, in order to advance the business climate in the region and create a platform for successful regional cooperation. The Slovenian Business Club will continue to promote investments and business opportunities, as well as supporting its members in their operations. The Club will become an even stronger and more influential player in Serbian, Slovenian and regional business over the next 10 years, with a strong network of contacts and partnerships.

■ To what extent does the structure of your members today reflect the changes that occurred in the structure of the Slovenian and Serbian economies?

- The Slovenian economy has transformed itself over recent decades, which has also been reflected in the structure of SBC members in Serbia. Slovenian companies have become increasingly present in sectors like information technology, energy, pharmaceuticals, high-tech manufacturing and other fields. Serbia is an attractive destination for

There are great opportunities for joint R&D projects among Serbian and Slovenian institutions and companies. These kinds of projects will improve innovation and the competitiveness of both countries

foreign investors thanks to its geographic position, qualified workforce, stable macroeconomic climate and a series of other factors. However, the Serbian economy has also been undergoing a positive transformation at all levels over the last ten years. It is strengthening and expanding considerably to other areas, including the Slovenian market, which is open to foreign investments. Today’s SBC membership structure reflects, to a great extent, the changes that have taken place in the structures of the Slovenian and Serbian economies.

The SBC membership today includes not only Slovenian companies that operate in Serbia, but significantly and increasingly Serbian companies that want to cooperate with Slovenian companies and also to invest in Slovenia.

■ How well prepared are we, as two countries, to build a knowledge-based economy; what can we learn about that from one another and in which areas can we cooperate better?

- Serbia and Slovenia are already building their economies on the basis of knowledge to a great extent, but there is plenty of room for significant improvement in this area. In terms of learning from one

another, both countries have a rich tradition in the education and research fields, and there are tangible opportunities for cooperation.

Slovenian universities and institutes have vast research and development experience in various fields, and some Slovenian companies are leaders in their sectors. These companies could be mentors or partners to Serbian start-ups that are in the development or growth stage and could help them successfully position their products and services on the European market.

On the other hand, Serbia is a rich source of highly qualified workers, including experts in fields like information technology, engineering and other sciences. These experts could contribute to the operations of Slovenian companies.

In the area of exchanges of knowledge, both countries have significant potential at their disposal and can learn a lot from each other. There are great opportunities for joint R&D projects among Serbian and Slovenian institutions and companies. These kinds of projects will improve innovation and the competitiveness of both countries.

One of the key factors in ensuring the longevity of the Slovenian Business Club is its operational continuity, and the constant engagement and support of its members. Membership activities haven’t ceased since the very establishment of the SBC. Times of crisis have not represented an insurmountable obstacle

■ There’s no doubt that the needs of environmental protection, implementation of the European Green Deal and generally adapting to new business circumstances represent challenges for all economies, ours included. Where do you see room to improve cooperation on this front?

- The development of industry brought humankind not only progress, but also the essential need to protect the environment. Implementing the Green Deal and adapting to new business circumstances represent major challenges for all economies around the world, including those of Serbia and Slovenia. And, like all challenges, these ones are overcome more easily and successfully by working together. In this sense, there is lots of room in this area for better cooperation between the two countries.

First and foremost, there is room for cooperation between Slovenian and Serbian companies that produce and use sustainable materials, in the production of green energy, and in other areas that contribute to preserving the environment. These companies should exchange experiences and knowledge and join forces to develop new products and services. Slovenian and Serbian institutions in the research and development field have capacities to develop new technologies and, in particular, to make innovations that will contribute to better preserving the environment and implementing the Green Deal.

Given that Slovenia is an EU member state and that Serbia is well on its way to attaining EU standards, countless possibilities exist for cooperation on policy and strategy development, and on the implementation of environmental protection and sustainable development regulations.

railways, waterways and airports – would increase the attractiveness of the country to investors. Small and medium-sized enterprises are considered the main drivers of economic development, but they are often confronted by a lack of capital, which restricts their growth and development. As such, it is important to provide more support to these enterprises in order to ease their access to finance, training and consulting services.

Last, but by no means least, is investing in education and research. Advancing expertise and the quality of the workforce depends on these activities. Developing innovative technologies attracts foreign investors and increases Serbia’s attractiveness as a destination for doing business.

■ Judging by the forecasts of the IMF, World Bank and many other institutions, it seems that we won’t see an end to the difficulties plaguing our economies, both locally and globally, even during 2023. As a veteran of the business world, what are you optimistic and pessimistic about when it comes to this year and next?

Finally, education and environmental awareness are key factors in the successful implementation of sustainable development. Both countries can work together to raise awareness of the importance of environmental protection, through educational programmes, public campaigns and other activities. Cooperation in this field could bring many benefits for both countries, while also contributing to the preservation of living environment for future generations.

■ From the standpoint of these new opportunities for cooperation, where do you see additional space to advance the business climate in Serbia?

- Improving the business climate in Serbia depends mostly on the state’s attitude to this matter and its focus on the creating of an environment favourable for investment. And room for improvement exists.

It is firstly necessary to reduce administrative obstacles that make it difficult to do business in Serbia, such as the still excessively long procedures for issuing various permits and many unclear laws and regulations. It is essential to strengthen the rule of law constantly and more intensively, i.e., to improve the judicial system and make it more independent, and to intensify the fight against corruption and organised crime, which would ensure a sense of security both personally and in business legal terms.

The continuation of investment in Serbian infrastructure – in roads,

- My experience tells me that my view of the situation facing the global economy should be fairly cautious. The situation still seems very challenging, considering the numerous economic problems countries around the world are facing. However, on the other hand, there are also several factors that make me optimistic.

First, it seems that countries all around the world, including Serbia and Slovenia, implemented appropriate measures to address the challenges that were brought about by the pandemic. This includes increasing investments in healthcare and technology, but also supporting the economy through various fiscal and monetary measures.

Second, growth potential exists in some key sectors, such as advanced technologies, healthcare and renewables. These sectors have recorded exceptional growth and created new business opportunities over the last few years.

Third, huge potential for cooperation between Serbia and Slovenia exists, but also for other countries in the region. I think the countries of the region must connect and cooperate more in order to jointly overcome challenges and achieve better economic growth.

Despite the challenges we face, I believe many opportunities for growth and progress exist, and my long career in business has taught me that the key is to be optimistic and focused on identifying solutions

First Choice In The ADRIATIC REGION

Comtradeisknownasadynamicgroupoftechnologycompaniesthathavemadeexcellent achievementsinthefieldofinnovationandcontinuousdevelopment.Comtradeisalsooneofthe largestsystemintegratorsintheAdriaticregion,whileithasalsobeenoperatingonSlovenia’s systemintegrationmarketsince2019

Although the future is often a hot topic in the IT industry, in reality, technological legacy is commonly holding back the progress of many companies. At Comtrade, they see themselves as a bridge between the past and the future for such organisations.

■ Comtrade has been growing in Slovenia since 2019. Are there references testifying to that?

For over 20 years now, Comtrade System Integration has been using the best solutions from global IT vendors such as Microsoft, IBM, Oracle and others, adding its own solutions to create unique client-oriented systems. This department of the Comtrade Group today employs more than 500 IT experts in the region, more than 80% of which are software engineers. The main competence centres are in Slovenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia.

The advantage of Comtrade is that it brings together different domains that are today collaborating more than ever before. Most of our customers in our region operate on international markets and therefore have similar challenges and standards as elsewhere in the Adriatic region. We are currently growing in Slovenia, which is also proven by the references we have received in all verticals, which means that the market needed a large and a recognised provider able to guarantee the financial stability of projects and the necessary personnel for the implementation of complex projects.

■ How did you use your experience to achieve the company's goals?

Both the company and I have over 20 years of experience. The business of IT companies is

shifting from large projects for large customers to small projects with many subscriptions to cloud services, with small specific services at the beginning and many opportunities for long-term growth. We think we have adapted well to this new economy and built a competitive advantage early enough.

■ Why is a regional system integrator so important?

Many companies still mainly do business in the Adriatic region. It is precisely these companies, among many others, that need a partner like Comtrade. The services of a

regional system integrator are also in demand by global companies that do not have their own major IT departments in this part of the world.

We have the skills to help companies on their digital transformation journey by deploying the tools available. A respected system integrator obviously needs to have great relations with global vendors, and we do exactly that – we have highest partner-status with companies such as Microsoft, IBM, Cisco, Dell, HPE, Oracle, VMware and many others.

■ Where do you see the systems integration division heading in the coming years?

At Comtrade System Integration, we see our advantage in the ability to analyse different technologies and acquire the knowledge to implement these technologies for the performance of our customers and their specific needs. Our range of services is also fairly wide: we offer everything from data and AI services, via document management systems, IT infrastructure and cloud services, including cyber security, all the way to custom development services and consultancy on clients’ complete digital transformation.

Of course, we will continue the planned growth path in the region. After the first three years on the Slovenian market, we are known as a good partner in the implementation of demanding projects in various industries. Our main value is the recognition of our customers, and we accordingly expect further growth and expansion to markets where we have not been present so far. At the same time, by expanding the range of services and acquiring new strategic customers, we will take care of maintaining our leading position on our traditional markets.

BUSINESS ALEŠ LESKOŠEK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COMTRADE SYSTEM INTEGRATION SLOVENIA

The advantage of Comtrade is that it brings together different domains that are today collaborating more than ever before

Insulation EXPERTS

Apartfrominourcountry,FragmatS–withitsofferofbitumenstriprollsfortheprotection ofbuildingsandfacilitiesagainstthepenetrationofgroundwater,atmosphericwaterorother water–hasforyearsbeenpresentinMontenegro,Bosnia-Herzegovina,NorthMacedonia, Romania,BulgariaandAlbania

tions almost 20 years ago, in September 2004, as a member of the system of Laškobased Tim d.d. A year later, following changes to the ownership structure, the Tim Izolirka factory was connected to the Fragmat system from Ljubljana.

The production process adheres to the ISO 9001 high quality standard, as confirmed by an official certificate, which –together with the professional training of workers – enables and ensures recognisable quality in operations and the product range, both on the domestic market and on other markets of Southeast Europe.

Bitumen strip rolls consist of a liner insert underlay that is coated on both sides with bituminous mass and protected with quartz sand, polyethylene film, talcum powder, shale or PE film. The bitumen strip’s characteristics are primarily determined by the type of underlay and the quality and amount of bitumen mass. The underlay regulates the physical and mechanical characteristics of the strip, while the bitumen mass regulates temperature consistency, waterproofing and resistance to ageing. The protection required determines the installation method for the strips, which are divided according to intended purpose into strips for secondary waterproofing, building foundation waterproofing, waterproofing for flat roofs, damp proofing vapour barriers and waterproofing bridge structures. Something for everyone.

T hanks to a favourable geographic location, knowledge and experience of the Fragmat system in the areas of thermal and hydro insulation, Fragmat S has become a leading factory for the production of waterproofing materials based on modi-

fied bitumen, bitumen emulsions, polymer modified bitumen for road surfacing and waterproofing bridge structures, as well as thermal insulation materials based on expanded polystyrene (EPS), special EPS products in the form of blocks and packaging polystyrene.

Fragmat S d.o.o., which hails from the town of Šid, officially launched its opera-

The Fragment S waterproofing bitumen strip is an indispensable inclusion in systems for greening flat roofs, to which special attention should be paid because green roofs have a positive aesthetic impact on the look of a buildings, but also on oxygen production, while they additionally reduce noise pollution levels by up to 50 decibels. That’s why the Fragmat S programme includes a green flat roof system with extensive vegetation that fully preserves the environment, which is also a commitment of this Šid-based company.

BOGDAN GAVRILOVIĆ, MANAGING DIRECTOR, WORLD TRANSPORT OVERSEAS

New Energy, NEW VICTORIES

With revenues of over 105 million euros, more than 45,000 TEUs and 88,000 cubic metresofgoodstransportedinLCLconsoleslastyear,WTOcarefullykeepsitsplace amongthemostsuccessfulfirmsinitsindustry

indicator for us still remains the main focus of our company's activities, LCL consoles, in which we transported more than 88,000 cubic metres of goods last year. This is the strongest indicator of our company's growth.

But however proud we are of these results, the most important for us are our people, and that's why we are happy to point out that we have almost 250 employees currently working in our offices in 12 countries, which makes WTO one of the most successful companies in the industry.

of work in the company. With energy, more staff, and new, much more modern and larger offices, our team is more than ready to respond to any client request.

■ Speaking of customers, are their needs, desires and expectations changing? How do you keep track of developments in your business?

Mr Gavrilović speaks to CorD Magazine about the fantastic business results from last year, the representative offices that were opened in accordance with the Vision 2030 strategy, the planned opening of an office in America, attitudes towards clients and staff

■ When we last spoke, you shared some of your plans for the coming period. Are you satisfied with how they have turned out?

- WTO Currently has more than 20 offices and representative offices in 12 countries, but it also has ambitious plans to expand. In accordance with our group's Vision 2030 strategy, we successfully opened a representative office in Albania in 2023, which was planned for this year, in addition to another office in Romania, more precisely in Constanta. Open-

ing an office in America is a big and demanding undertaking that remains our main priority for the coming period and we will work on it wholeheartedly, with the aim of realising our strategy and meeting the needs of our current and future clients.

■ We can see that implementation of your plans is proceeding as it should. Do the numbers show this when you draw the line under the previous year? Do you have reason to be satisfied?

- You are right... The numbers are clear and show that we have good reason to be satisfied and proud of what we have achieved. In fact, the group's results are more than impressive. With revenues of over 105 million euros and more than 45,000 TEUs transported, our targets for last year were successfully achieved. A more important

■ Do you expect the results of the Belgrade office to be even better after the changes in management?

- Following a decision by WTO's owner, there was a change in

- We recently returned from the logistics fair in Munich, where we had a stand. Here, clients and partners could talk with the owners of the company and with each country manager where the group has a representative office. Among others our stand hosted Mr Lars Jensen, one of the top experts in container transport. Talking with him about current topics

the general director and sector manager, so that both managerial lines are staffed with people who acquired their freight forwarding trade at WTO and have proven themselves through many years

was an important experience for each of us. That's why I think that such gatherings are extremely important for our business and in general for the development of the industry.

PILLAR OF SUPPORT AND THE PRIDE OF ITS MEMBERS

The Slovenian Business Club was created with the goal of easing the navigating of the Serbian market for Slovenian businesspeople, exchanging experiences and helping them overcome the difficulties they face. Today, with 20 years of operations under its belt, the SBC represents a significant and influential factor in both Serbian and Slovenian business circles

When it entered the business world back in 2003, there was practically no one – not even among the founders themselves – who believed that the Slovenian Business Club would become an organisation that lays foundations of future success on the Serbian market for Slovenian businesses. The SBC was created with the goal of easing the navigating of the Serbian market for Slovenian businesspeople, exchanging experiences and helping them overcome the difficulties they face. Those initial reasons to establish the association continue to be relevant today, with some variations. The inclusion of Serbian companies in the membership gradually began gaining importance, and those were the first companies to establish cooperation with representatives of the Slovenian economy in Serbia, followed by companies seeking to be

representatives of the Serbian economy in Slovenia. The membership’s multiplicity also constantly creates multiple challenges.

The SBC has grown over the years, developing its offer and activities, expanding continuously and adapting itself to meet the desires and demands of its members. Today, after twenty years of operations, it represents a significant and influential factor in business circles in both Serbia and Slovenia.

The SBC’s activities are wide-ranging and develop in two basic directions. One direction is reflected in the organising of events at which members gather, network, deepen their mutual acquaintances, exchange experiences and information, educate themselves and create opportunities for future business cooperation. In this sense, the club organises meetings with a multitude of contents, seminars and roundtables that

2004 JANUARY SBC members were guests at the Royal Palace. Hosts: Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine

2013 APRIL WORKING MEETING - Guest Ivan Simic, director of the Tax Administration of the Republic of Serbia on the occasion of the presentation of the electronic tax application

2014 MAY Business Forum Serbia-Slovenia on the occasion of the visit of Mr. Borut Pahor, President of the Republic of Slovenia

2014 OCTOBER Speed business meeting- SBC, Amcham and AHK

2013 OCTOBER Business Forum Serbia-Slovenia, on the occasion of the visit of Mrs. Alenka Bratušek, Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia

2010 DECEMBER WORKING MEETING

Tenth anniversary of business relations between Slovenia and Serbia - Vladimir Kravcuk, President of the Slovenian Business Club, mr Franc But, Ambassador of Slovenia to Serbia and Dmitar Polovina, Vice-president of the Slovenian Business Club 2

include the participation of eminent representatives – not only from Serbia and Slovenia, but also from further afield – while it also cooperates successfully with other business associations operating in Serbia.

The second basic direction of development encompasses activities aimed at establishing “one-on-one” contacts, i.e., the Club’s work with individual companies on finding solutions to specific problems confronting individual members that the SBC can contribute to overcoming, as well as providing support to companies in terms of identifying potential partners for cooperation. The SBC thereby also provides a bonus value to its members because, even in this age of advanced technologies,

finding the right person with whom you can reach agreement and do a good job remains the most difficult task. Ultimately, it is the individual person who creates and realises a business deal with another person.

Continuing in the same direction, albeit at a higher tempo and with greater energy and enthusiasm, the Club can note with pride that it is among the largest foreign business associations in Serbia in terms of membership numbers, while it is simultaneously one of the most successful Slovenian business clubs anywhere in the world. It is characterised by vision in setting goals, and by perseverance and dedication in reaching and immediately realising those goals. To its members, the SBC is a

2016 October Working meeting with MInister Vujović

2019 January Business Forum SLO-SRB

2018 October Martinovanje

2021 June Working meetng with MInister Momirović

2017 Sept Basketball tournament SBC_SAM_AMCham

2020 March Working breakfast JPM

2022 DEC NY meeting

pillar of support and a source of pride.

Friendly and interactive links between members, cooperation with state bodies in both Serbia and Slovenia, but also with chambers of commerce and business associations, sports-business-cultural meetings, education and counselling, the timely conveying of relevant information and morality in every decision made – all this serves to reaffirm and characterise the Club time and again.

The SBC expands on its business activities with additional contents that contribute to relaxing and entertaining its members and friends. The traditional Martinovanje celebration of St. Martin’s Day and New

Year cocktail party are events to which the words “irreplaceable” and “unavoidable” should be added as taglines. Led by the principle that it should never be completely satisfied with the results achieved, the SBC always strives to do more and better.

The Slovenian Business Club’s mission is to create success stories. It is always ready to assist companies in creating additional investment opportunities on the markets of Serbia and Slovenia. With its impeccable reputation and high-quality work, the SBC has established high standards for itself and sends a clear message that it is a trustworthy and dependable organisation.

2022 June Panel discussion

2022 September International networking coctail

2023 April Speed business meeting

2022 Sept Road to recovery conference

2023 April CEO networking

2023 February working breakfast

Slovenia: at The Heart Of The HISTORY OF SKIING

The Alpine Ski Museum is located in the town of Begunje na Gorenskem, Slovenia, just a short drive away from the famously photogenic Lake Bled and other charming locations. The tiny Begunje is famous for a handful of big things: a pair of castles (Ravensburg and Kamen); the home and museum of polka legend Slavko Avsenik; and world-renowned ski manufacturer Elan.

The Alpine Ski Museum is a branded affair, organised by Elan and housed alongside its outlet store. While the exhibited skis were made by the home brand, they’re also the very skis that won famous competitions. Elan is best-known for having invented carving skis in 1991, which are today the universal standard for recreational skiers, but the museum nonetheless presents an objective history of skiing, complete

with interactive displays. At this museum you’ll find a mechanical ski and snowboard simulator (think of skis and a snowboard on a giant metal spring), a digital slalom simulator and the material components of skis laid out so you can put them together and make like a master ski-smith.

Elan was founded in 1945 to provide skis for the Partisan soldiers of Yugoslavia, in order to enable them to better fight the occupying Nazis. However, the history lessons offered at this museum hark back to 10,000 BC, the approximate date of a cave painting of a hunter on skis carved into the rock of the Altai Mountains, along the border between China and Mongolia. A similar carving dating back to around 3,500 BC was found on Norway’s Rødøya Island, demonstrating that skis were used to hunt wherever humans lived in snowy conditions. Wooden components

This cutting-edge museum details the history of skiing, from its ancient origins to its modern status as an Olympic sport

of what experts consider to be proto-skis, dating back to between 7,000 and 5,000 BC, have been found at Vyg Lake in Russia. It seems that strapping wood to one’s feet to better glide over snow is an idea that has been around since time immemorial.

The sport of Alpine skiing was developed by Austrian Mathias Zdarsky in the 1890s, but back then most skis were just straight, smooth wooden planks, sometimes curled at the front, and with leather straps to hold your feet in place. The biggest technological revolution in skiing only occurred in 1991, the year Slovenia gained its independence, when

Elan created the Sidecut Extreme (SCX) ski, based on the principle that carving (making smooth, sharp turns) is easier on a ski that has more of an hourglass shape than a stiff, straight plank. This shape, referred to more generally as “carving skis”, has since become the industry standard.

250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF ANTON JANŠA

Beekeeping Pioneer IMMORTALISED BY A UN DAY

wanted to improve knowledge of beekeeping across the empire and was seeking a teacher to work at the newly founded beekeeping school. This presented Anton with a dilemma over whether to continue with his studies or work in the field of apiculture that he had adored since childhood on. He ultimately decided that he would be able to contribute more by passing on his profound knowledge of beekeeping. An official imperial decree of 6th April 1770 made Anton the first imperially-appointed teacher of apiculture at the Augarten imperial gardens in Vienna. His work included travelling around Austrian lands to spread and promote beekeeping, while

Anton Janša was born to a simple, peasant family on 20th May 1734 in the village of Breznica in the region of Upper Carniola (then part of the Austro-Hungarian empire, today Slovenia). The house where he was born, positioned next to his apiary, was preserved until 1907.

Anton showed a great talent for painting as a young man, as did his younger brothers, Lovro and Valentin. They arranged a simple painting studio in a barn that formed part of their homestead. Despite being illiterate, all three brothers headed to Vienna in 1766 and enrolled in the Fine Arts Academy. Lovro and Valentin went on to become renowned painters in Vienna, while Anton found his calling in beekeeping, despite also proving very successful at the academy of arts. In 1769, Habsburg Empress Maria Theresa

Anton Janša is considered one of the fathers of modern beekeeping techniques and one of the global pioneers of apiculture

he gave practical lessons about new scientific findings and his own observations, as well as authoring professional books. He wrote two important books on apiculture in the German language: Razpravo o rojenju čebel (A Discussion on the Swarming of Bees), which was first published in 1771 and translated into Slovenian in 1906; and Popolni nauk o čebelarstvu (A Complete Guide to Beekeeping), which was published posthumously in 1775 and translated into Slovenian in 1792, becoming the first Slovenian book on beekeeping. Following Janša’s death, Empress Maria Theresa issued a decree ordering all teachers of beekeeping to teach according to Janša’s books. These two books, which have been translated into many foreign languages, continue to present mandatory basic reading for every new beekeeper. Janša died in Vienna on 13th September 1773.

His most important contributions to the development of beekeeping included changing the size and shape of hives to enable them to be stacked together like blocks and thus more easily moved to various meadows. His beekeeping methods were based on traditional knowledge from his father’s homeland. He introduced the autochthonous Slovenian bee – APIS MELLIFERA CARNICA – to the rest of the world, invented a couple of handy beekeeping tools and was the first to discover the role and importance of drones in the hive (Janša rejected the pre-existing belief that male bees were water carriers and assumed that the queen is impregnated

mid-air by drones). All of Anton’s new discoveries were later confirmed by science.

Writing in one of his books, he noted “Bees are a type of fly, hardworking, created by God to provide man with all needed

honey and wax. Amongst all God’s beings, there are none so hard working and useful to man with so little attention needed for its keep as the bee.”

Janša is considered the greatest Slovenian beekeeper. In an effort to honour his legacy and simultaneously raise awareness of the importance of bees and bee products, the Beekeepers Association of Slovenia, with the support of the Republic of Slovenia, launched the United Nations initiative for Anton Janša’s birthday, 20th May, to be commemorated as World Bee Day.

Writing in one of his books, he noted “Bees are a type of fly, hardworking, created by God to provide man with all needed honey and wax. Amongst all God’s beings, there are none so hard working and useful to man with so little attention needed for its keep as the bee.”

PREDJAMA The World’s LARGEST CAVE CASTLE

By John Malathronas

Predjama is one of the most extraordinary castles in the world, built in the mouth of a cave complex at the end of a valley in southwest Slovenia. Set halfway up a 400-foot (123-meter) vertical cliff face, it appears in records from 1202 and is listed by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest cave castle

With a Renaissance facade dating back to the 1580s, the word “majestic” doesn’t even begin to describe it. Yet for tour guide and historian Vojko Jurca, one of the highlights is, on first appearances, a little underwhelming.

“This is it,” he says proudly, indicating an outhouse toilet with a sloping roof and a boarded-up door.

It may look unremarkable, but the story behind it isn’t.

The story focuses on robber baron Erasmus von Lueg, a local Robin Hood hero who fled to the castle in the mid-1480s after

killing Count Pappenheim, Marshal of the imperial Habsburg Court, in a duel with disuputed legitimacy.

In retaliation, a siege was ordered on Predjama by Habsburg Emperor Frederick III.

But Erasmus stood firm, aided by a network of secret tunnels burrowed into the rocks that allowed him to bring in provisions and collect rainwater.

He mocked his opponents by sending them fresh cherries brought in from the Vipava Valley, 13 miles west, using those underground passages.

The end would come, after a year and a day, when Erasmus was betrayed by a servant.

As Jurca tells it, when Erasmus went to the outhouse located on a third-floor terrace, the servant lit a wooden torch as a signal. Moments later, a cannonball came whistling through the air, killing Erasmus in the middle of his last bowel movement.

The outhouse has clearly been rebuilt in the intervening years.

The manner of Erasmus’s death hasn’t escaped the attention of “Game of Thrones” fans who point at the similar, undignified end of Lord Tywin Lannister, who was shot with a crossbow while on his bathroom throne.

They also note that Predjama’s last owners, the Windisch-Grätz family, who used the castle as a hunting lodge until the end of World War II, have on their coat of arms a wolf, the seal of the Stark noble house.

As it happens, author George R. R. Martin visited the castle

one evening in June 2011, after a book signing event in Trieste.

“On the way home, we stopped at the most amazing castle, built into the mouth of a huge cave. Definitely have to model some castle in Westeros on this one, it was an eyeful, especially by night,” he says in a blog post.

Legend and history are only part of the appeal of Predjama castle. You really have to visit to comprehend how human enterprise was so organically bound to nature.

Approaching the castle from any direction, it’s almost completely hidden, only visible at the last moment – whereas sentries around

The story focuses on robber baron Erasmus von Lueg, a local Robin Hood hero who fled to the castle in the mid1480s after killing Count Pappenheim, Marshal of the imperial Habsburg Court, in a duel whose legitimacy was disputed

the castle would’ve been able to spot anyone coming immediately.

Once inside, it’s obvious that safety rather than comfort was the biggest concern in the Middle Ages – the castle is impregnable but the cold and damp make it almost unlivable.

The manner of Erasmus’s death hasn’t escaped the attention of “Game of Thrones” fans who point at the similar, undignified end of Lord Tywin Lannister, who was shot with a crossbow while on his bathroom throne

Nowadays, entering the castle involves passing through a drawbridge. The original entrance was higher up where two faint doors can be glimpsed. They were reached via ladders that could quickly be withdrawn.

Back in the day, visitors would first enter the courtroom, where rough justice was dispensed. Few of the ruler’s subjects would be allowed further than this, unless they were unlucky.

Behind a thick wooden door there’s a torture room, which, uniquely, is situated in an actual cavernous dungeon. The preferred punishments here were the rack, on which prisoners were stretched, and the horse, a painfully pointed triangular device they were made to straddle.

One of the most pleasant spaces follows. The dining room is insulated by walls that are nearly five and a half feet thick,

and warmed by the small but functional kitchen, in which a fissure doubles as a natural extractor hood.

You can also inspect an original latrine, a protruding seat over the cliff that allows gravity to do its dirty work. Erasmus would have used straw, dried moss and cabbage leaves instead of toilet paper, or at least he would have before he was blown to smithereens.

A climb up more stairs to the third floor reveals the gun loops, arrow slits and murder holes used to pour boiling oil or molten resin on to the besiegers.

That’s where the open terrace is located. Here there’s a view of the whole valley, as well as the most famous outhouse in Slovenian history.

Next to it is the bedroom. It’s the warmest room, as it’s the only one with a fireplace. Castle keepers lived here until the 1980s.

Upstairs is an attic that served as a barracks and a lookout. The views down the Lokva Valley are uninterrupted and gorgeous.

The barracks have been converted into an armory museum

showcasing medieval weapons like battleaxes, halberds, crossbows and flails.

Interestingly, a passage here leads straight to the torture room. Presumably anyone sleeping on duty could be unceremoniously dragged down into it.

From here you can also enter the innards of the cave, exploring until the light from the entrance dwindles to a speck, letting you contemplate the surroundings.

The extensive limestone cave system in southern Slovenia is called karst, after the Latin name Carsus given to the plateau above Trieste.

As it was the best-known limestone terrain for centuries, the word has become generic, describing any limestone terrain with cavities like a Swiss cheese with holes.

Beneath the castle, one large cave stretches for 8.7 miles, second in length to the nearby complex of Postojna.

There’s no tourist infrastructure at this large cavern, but it is possible to visit during the summer months, with proper caving

Beneath the castle, one large cave stretches for 8.7 miles, second in length to the nearby complex of Postojna. There’s no tourist infrastructure at this large cavern, but it is possible to visit during the summer months, with proper caving gear, lamps and a specialist guide

gear, lamps and a specialist guide. It’s closed in winter because a colony of Schreiber’s long-fingered bats uses it to hibernate.

Back in the castle, a one-way system leads back down to the knights’ room, notable for its Gothic niches and a ceiling painted with oxblood.

There are glimpses here and there of how the structure’s builders made efficient use of their rocky situation. One small shaft near the exit became a kennel for hunting dogs, while a cave mouth under the castle served as stables.

Leaving the castle, guide Vojko has one more stop on his tour – a nearby village where an ailing linden tree is being propped up in the cemetery of Our Lady of Sorrows.

The church was consecrated around 1450 by the bishop of Trieste, future Pope Pius II.

“Legend has it that this linden tree was planted on top of Erasmus’ grave,” Vojko says.

The tree was badly damaged by fire in 2001, but it meant so much to the villagers that tree surgeons were called in, and its trunk split and repaired.

It still proudly survives, like Predjama castle itself.