Interview: Vjeran Vrbanec, “Buy Croatian” initiative in Director of Hamag-Bicro → We Split→ Croatia – a country need to be more accessible to with high quality products entrepreneurs PAGES 4-7 PAGES 8-9
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June 2017, Year X, No 270
CROATIA AND EXCESSIVE DEFICIT PROCEDURE
FINALLY, AGREEMENT TO EXIT THE EDP The recommendation made by the European Commission regarding Croatia exiting the Excessive Deficit Procedure has been welcomed as positive news, yet everyone is aware that on-going implementation of reforms is vital
T
he European Commission recommended Croatia exit the Excessive Deficit Procedure, ongoing since January 2014, based on their assessment of the Stability and Convergence Programme previously submitted. In 2016, Croatia reduced its budget deficit to 0.8% of GDP, from 3.4% in 2015, whilst public debt fell 2.5% to 84.2% of GDP for the first time in the eightyear period. The EC recommendation regarding Croatia exiting from the Excessive Deficit Procedure has been welcomed as positive news, although most people are aware that the on-going implementation of reforms is vital in order to create a conducive business environment and accelerate economic growth. “As a result of a responsible fiscal policy and wise budget management, as well as GDP growth and public debt reduction, we achieved excellent results and we saw the lowest budget deficit on record at just 0.8% of GDP. Consequently, we found ourselves in the position in which the European Commission made a recommendation to the Council to abrogate the Excessive Deficit Procedure”, emphasised the Prime Minister, Andrej Plenković, adding that he was expecting
the Council of Ministers, in charge of making the final decision, to confirm the process around mid-June.
The recommendation has been welcomed as positive news by the Croatian Chamber of Economy, yet the fact that reforms are imperative in order to create a propitious business environment and accelerate economic growth has been pointed out repeatedly. Davor Ma-
jetić, Managing Director at the Croatian Employers’ Association, agrees with this stance and he stressed that reforms are fundamental primarily in order to accelerate economic growth, as well as for longterm sustainability. “The exit (from Excessive Deficit Procedure) does not mean our problems are over. It is important to highlight that the improvements have been cyclical and based on increased budget revenue through increasingly dynamic economic growth that exceeded all expectations, whilst structural problems still need to be tackled, primarily concerning the longterm sustainability both of pension and health care systems”, concluded Zdeslav Šantić, Chief Economist at Splitska banka, adding that public-sector reform should certainly also be kept in mind. According to the Spring 2017 Economic Forecast released by the European Commission, it is anticipated that the Croatian deficit may well increase to 1.1% of GDP, as a result of the impact of tax reform, whilst in 2018 it is expected to drop to 0.9%. On the other hand, public debt is expected to drop to 81.9% of GDP, only to see a further decrease to 79.4% in the following year. (I.G.)
AKTUALNO GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE CROATIAN CHAMBER OF ECONOMY
INCREASING NON-DUE R REDUCING REVENUE FR We are aiming to reduce revenue from membership fees and increase the share of non-due revenue, as well as use the highest possible proportion of resources from the EU budget. We have already abolished the obligation to pay membership fees, emphasised the President of the CCE by Krešimir Sočković
W
e are aiming to reduce revenue from membership fees and increase the share of nondues revenue, as well as use the highest possible proportion of resources from the EU budget. We have already abolished the obligatory membership fees, emphasised the President of the Croatian Chamber of Economy, Luka Burilović, during the fifth meeting of the General Assembly of the Croatian Chamber of Economy. During the fifth session of the General Assembly, Zdenko Balen, certified auditor at BDO Croatia, presented the Auditor’s Report for 2016. In this document, it was pointed out that the financial report for the year ending 31st December 2016 presents a true and fair view both of the financial position and operating results, in compliance with the requisite legal framework. Burilović added that the audit currently ongoing at the CCE is be-
AMENDMENTS TO THE ARBITRATION ORDINANCE WILL SIMPLIFY ARBITRATION PROCEDURES ing conducted by the State Audit Office, which is supposed to provide a new and higher level of transparency and corpo2 | PVinternational | June 2017 | No 270
This year we are planning to open a representative office in Shanghai, since all European chambers are present there, as well as in Belgrade and Sarajevo and perhaps Vienna. We will open all representative offices by the end of next year, announced Luka Burilović, President of the CCE
rate social responsibility by the next session of the General Assembly. Goran Blagojević, President of the Supervisory Board, reported on the supervision of tangible assets and financial operations for 2016. “The revenue generated was €22.32 million, as opposed to expenditure of €21.73 million, whilst the value of assets slightly exceeded €41 million”, stressed Blagojević. In 2016, the Chamber of Economy generated revenue from membership fees, as well as from the sale of certain longterm tangible assets and revenue generated via EU projects.
INTENSE ACTIVITY “In 2016 the CCE organised 147 delegations, 47 of which were abroad, covering 1,890 participants, as well as 640 training programmes intended for its members with participation of slightly over 25,000 attendees. Moreover, it submitted almost 400 written opinions, proposals, attitudes and initiatives to economic policy creators aiming to exert some impact on the enactment of regulatory framework. In addition, it represented the interests of its members through 49 international associations and impacted on policy creation both at EU level and on non-EU policies”, emphasised Burilović, adding that in 2017 the CCE is marking the 20th anniversary of the Buy Croatian campaign and its 165th anniversary. Pursuant to a recommendation by the State Audit Office, all property that is not used for the performance of the core activities of the Chamber, has been included in the property sales plans. The pro-
REVENUE, WHILST OM MEMBERSHIP FEES
perty located at Nova cesta was offered for sale following a decision reached at the 5th meeting of the General Assembly. Furthermore, Ordinance on the Amendments to the Arbitration Ordinance of Permanent Arbitration Court at the CCE was adopted during the 5th meeting of the General Assembly, intended to simplify the arbitration procedure through the introduction of the function of Vice-President of the Court acting as the appointing authority. As explained by the President of the CCE, this was intended to further promote the arbitration procedure and to make it more accessible as a more rapid method of dispute settlement. In addition, during the General Assembly, approval was granted on the implementation of the EEN-SSBICRO project. A budget of €1.2 million was planned for 2017 and 2018 for the
IN 2017, THE CCE WILL MARK THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BUY CROATIAN CAMPAIGN AND 165 YEARS OF OPERATION whole consortium, with the European Commission financing 58% of the entire project.
SUPPORT TO BUSINESSES At the end of the General Assembly, Burilović pointed out the opening of seven new representative offices and an agreement recently concluded with the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs concerning the sending of a representative of the CCE to Croatian diplomatic and consular offices, in order to provide the greatest possible
level of support to businesses in their attempts at internationalisation, as well as to rationalise costs. “We have a representative office located in Brussels which is intended for lobbying and that is fully understandable concerning the vicinity of EU institutions. This year we are planning to open a representative office in Shanghai, since all European chambers are present there, as well as in Belgrade and Sarajevo and perhaps Vienna. We will open all representative offices by the end of next year”, announced Burilović. June 2017 | No 270 | PVinternational | 3
INTERVIEW VJERAN VRBANEC, DIRECTOR OF HAMAG-BICRO
To date, we are not sufficiently well-known
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WE NEED TO BE MORE ACCESSIBLE TO ENTREPRENEURS We are working to create an encouraging environment in which small businesses will be given the chance to implement high quality investment projects with a consequential rise in employment, an improvement in export competitiveness and further development of the overall economy by Krešimir Sočković
T
he Croatian Agency for SME’s, Innovation and Investment (HAMAG-BICRO) is a government agency involved in the promotion of small and medium-sized entrepreneurship. Its programmes are intended to provide support to entrepreneurs throughout the development stages – from research and development of the concept, to commercialisation and product launch. It achieves its aims through the provision of non-repayable grants and financial assistance to innovative and technological companies, as well as the encouragement of investment and business financing through loans and issuance of guarantees. Vjeran Vrbanec, former Head of the Administrative Department in Međimurje County, was appointed as its Director a year ago. Although the Agency has actually existed for quite some time, there are a large num-
ber of entrepreneurs who are not familiar with its scope of its work. The Agency has been operating since 1994 as the Croatian Guarantee Agency which used to issue guarantees for loans granted by banks and others to entrepreneurs. Moreover, it used to provide financial assistance intended to reduce the cost of loans. The Croatian Agency for Small Businesses was founded in 2002, as the legal successor to the Croatian Guarantee Agency and was focused on encouraging the development of SME’s and increasing their share in the overall economy. In 2012, it changed its name to the Croatian Agency for SME’s and Investment. The second segment of the Agency was founded from the Business-Innovation Agency of Croatia – BICRO, which was established through the merger of the Croatian Institute of Technology (HIT) and the Business-Innovation Centre of Croatia (BICRO), as the central institution involved in the provision of financial assistance to innovative and technology-oriented companies. Their merger, intended to form the Croatian Agency for SME’s, Innovation and Investment
We are involved in direct financing of SME’s, whilst simultaneously providing financing of innovative projects and access to finance from other sources through intermediaries.
WE ARE AIMING TO FACILITATE ACCESS TO FINANCING FOR ENTREPRENEURS June 2017 | No 270 | PVinternational | 5
INTERVIEW in 2014, resulted in the strategic creation of a unique system which will subsequently provide support and assistance to entrepreneurs starting from research and development of the concept to commercialisation and market placement.
58 million
€
value of another programme of ESIF portfolio guarantees
We are living in the age of the Internet and we believe that comprehensive information is available to each entrepreneur concerning any issues and thus they are given the opportunity to independently browse through all the information they find of interest concerning their business. What we provide them with can certainly improve their market position.
You have been the Director of the Agency for slightly less than a year. What has happened since then? Upon my arrival I encountered many good things. I am not the type of person to continuously ponder about the past, as I prefer to reflect on the future instead. We retained and preserved all the good things we encountered upon our arrival and continued improving them. We are aiming to help entrepreneurs with the financing of their activities. We are currently considering improvements to the business structure and focusing on innovation programmes with great intensity. Innovation is currently the burning issue across Europe in all strategies and hence we should follow. We are moving to create an encouraging environment in which small businesses will be given the opportunity to implement high quality investment projects the consequence of which will be a rise in employment rates, an improvement in export competitiveness and further development of the overall economy. What type of programmes are currently provided by the Agency? Our range of services may not appear connected at first glance. We are involved in the direct financing of SME’s, whilst simultaneously providing financing for innovative projects and access to finance from other sources through intermediaries. Concerning the financial instruments at our disposal, we issue guarantees for loans, and projects financed through EU funding; we grant loans from these funds and finally we own a seed fund – resources for encouraging investment for early stage financing. Moreover, we provide non-repayable grants to entrepreneurs and innovation programmes intended for a review of innovation concept, innovation development, co-operation with scientific institutions, as well as technological infrastructure development or involvement in the international programme for support to innovations. What programmes provided by the Agency are currently arousing the greatest interest? Our micro and small business lending programmes are currently the most popular, as well as being non-repayable, which are normally popular. At the beginning of July 2016,
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we signed an agreement with the Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds on new financial instruments – micro and small business lending, as well as guarantees - worth €20 million. At the beginning of October
OUR MICRO AND SMALL BUSINESS LENDING PROGRAMMES ARE CURRENTLY THE MOST POPULAR, AS WELL AS NON-REPAYABLE FUNDS, WHICH ARE ALWAYS POPULAR 2016, we invited tenders and currently, six months later, we can see that this has aroused the greatest amount of interest through a business-friendly procedure, providing affordable loans from €25,000 to €50.000. This programme owes its success to favourable interest rates and its simple procedure. We have granted over €8 million in loans with interest rates ranging from 0.5% to 3%, depending on the type of work that is being financed and where in Croatia the business originates from. I believe this is the product that has attracted the greatest number of entrepreneurs. How can entrepreneurs be informed about the programmes provided by your Agency? We have an excellent website that provides comprehensive information about our programmes and our support to entrepreneurs. The information is regularly updated with highlights on the most popular programme at a specific point, as well as the programmes and support provided to entrepreneurs. Furthermore, we actively communicate on social networks through which direct communication with our staff can be established. We are living in the age of the Internet and we believe that comprehensive information is available to each entrepreneur concerning any issues and thus they are given the opportunity to independently browse through all the information they find of interest concerning their business. What we provide them with can certainly improve their market position. In the near future, we are planning
to provide the opportunity of online applications for our most popular micro and small lending programmes, so that entrepreneurs from Ilok, Međimurje or Dubrovnik do not have to physically visit our offices in order to submit their documentation and be informed on the processing of their request. The entire procedure will be digitised and they will be able to apply for a loan of up to €50,000 from the comfort of their room or office, as well as submit all the documentation and be provi-
WE HAVE AN EXCELLENT WEBSITE THAT PROVIDES COMPREHENSIVE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR PROGRAMMES AND SUPPORT TO ENTREPRENEURS ded with comprehensive information on the entire process. Following this project which will be the test phase for our entire system I believe we will be able to provide all our programmes on the same digital platform and consequently achieve further upgrades. We are embracing what has been presented by the Croatian government as strategic commitment.
Will the scope of activity of the Agency change in the immediate future? I believe it is crucial to make the Agency more accessible to entrepreneurs. We have not been sufficiently identifiable to date. The Agency ranks amongst the most important institutions for entrepreneurs concerning the implementation of European Structural and Investment Funds and so we will continue with the implementation of our existing programmes for absorption of the Operational Programme Competitiveness and Cohesion. We are planning to activate yet another programme of ESIF portfolio guarantees worth €58 million, which will also be implemented in co-operation with several financial institutions. The guarantee portfolio amount will reach €150,000. The capped portfolio guarantee ensures the coverage of credit risk in new loan portfolio for SME’s up to the capped amount of loss at the level of each individual expertise. Since in the forthcoming years we are striving to provide €7.8 billion in non-repayable grants available to us through EU funding, we will continue advocating for the reduction of bureaucratic hurdles, addressing the sluggishness of the entire system, removal of administrative barriers and the simplification of procedures upon project application for tenders. We are planning to provide support for 710 projects for research and development, as well as for innovations, 480 start-ups and 6,830 small and medium-sized businesses. We are anticipating this will result in the creation of almost 7,400 new jobs. Entrepreneurs can access all the services provided either from the comfort of their offices or in their counties through co-operation with regional development agencies and other institutions supporting entrepreneurs.
The Agency ranks amongst the most important institutions for entrepreneurs concerning the implementation of European Structural and Investment Funds and hence we will continue with the implementation of our existing programmes for absorption of the Operational Programme Competitiveness and Cohesion.
1
€ billion the value of non-repayable grants through EU funding planned for the future
7,400 new jobs expected to be created
June 2017 | No 270 | PVinternational | 7
“BUY CROATIAN” INITIATIVE IN SPLIT
CROATIA – a country with high quality products
Producers currently need as much support as they can get. They provide high qu encouraging the creation of new jobs, pointed out Luka Burilović by Jozo Vrdoljak
T
he Croatian Chamber of Economy has continued with its national initiative “Buy Croatian” for a further year, marking its 20th anniversary. This year’s initial activities have recently taken place on the Split-based waterfront where almost 130 exhibitors from different sectors presented and sold their products, some of which were labelled as either Croatian Creation or Croatian Quality. The project of visual marking of products with quality labels is intended to promote high quality local products. The 20th anniversary of the initiative launched by the Croatian Chamber of Economy has been marked with diverse entertainments, as well as culture and arts programmes.
According to latest research, 78% of local people buy Croatian products, and 86% are prepared to tolerate slightly higher pieces for a high quality local product. Luka Burilović, President of the CCE
BUYING DOMESTIC PRODUCTS AS A LIFESTYLE During his address to visitors and business people, local people and special guests, Luka Burilović, President of the Croatian Chamber of Economy, expressed his delight that this year’s initiative “Buy Croatian” was launched in Split. “A wide range of Croatian products was provided in Split, showing the success of this year’s initiative. We have been pointing out the importance of buying Croatian products and stressing Croatian quality for twenty years. Croatian producers currently need as much support as they can get. Our producers provide high quality products and develop employee retention, as well for the creation of new jobs. We are aiming to create a new image of Croatia, which, in addition to being a beautiful country, will also be consi-
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dered as a country with high quality products. Croatian people can make an immense impact concerning this issue, by embracing Buy Croatian initiative as a lifestyle throughout the year”, emphasised Burilović.
THIS YEAR “BUY CROATIAN” INITIATIVE MARKS ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY The President of the CCE pointed out that encouraging job preservation, boosting local production and youth retention in Croatia are the highest forms of patriotism. “Over the past 20 years we have made substantial progress in raising public awareness on the importance of the purchase of local products. According to the latest research findings, 78% of Croatians buy Croatian products, and 86% of them are prepared to tolerate slightly higher prices for a high quality domestic product”, added Burilović.
TOURISTS BECOMING ACQUAINTED WITH CROATIAN PRODUCTS Gari Cappelli, Minister of Tourism, concluded that foreign tourists are becoming wellacquainted with Croatian products. “Several days ago, we launched a joint initiative to present Croatian products at the most beautiful market place in Europe – the Budapest-based
uality products and assist in employee retention, as well as Great Market Hall. There, 15,000 people, who visited on the first day, and were given the chance to taste Croatian products. It would be intolerable to claim that Croatian products are uncompetitive. On the contrary; Croatian products are high quality and I am convinced we will manage to adequately present their quality both to local and foreign tourists”, noted Capelli, pointing out the fact that the results achieved from tourism thus far are excellent. “Both Split and Split-Dalmatia County have seen an increase of around 30% compared with the same period last year. I believe we are about to see an excellent tourist season.
Tourists, who have already identified the quality of Croatian products, need to be provided with a deeper insight into them if we wish to further enhance the forthcoming tourist season”, added Cappelli. Zlatko Ževrnja, Prefect of Split-Dalmatia County, highlighted the fact that paying €1.5 in order to buy Croatian products results in €2 billion additional investment into the Croatian economy. Andro Krstulović Opara, envoy of the President of the Croatian government, Andrej Plenković, pointed out the importance of the people both behind Croatian products and the Croatian economy.
Croatian products are high quality and I am convinced we will manage to adequately present their quality on both local and foreign tourists. Gari Capelli, Tourism Minister
PARTICIPANTS’ OPINION
A praiseworthy initiative Around 130 Croatian producers exhibited their products at the Split-based waterfront. Some, like Branko Bočina, owner of Juta Spiza (Spicy Food) from Kaštel Stari – participated in the “Buy Croatian” initiative for the first time. “This is certainly not the last time, since we will continue exhibiting our products within this initiative. We believe it would be particularly important for us to exhibit our products in Zagreb as part of this praiseworthy initiative”, emphasised Bočina, adding that all the ingredients used in 12 products exhibited by them originate from the area of Kašteli. Klaudija Krstičević, owner of a farm from Krvavac, in the valley of the River Neretva, also participated at this event for the first time. “We produce different types of juice and spreads
based on citrus fruits. We have been involved in the ecological production of tangerines from which we produce natural juices, without additives, as well as arancini (candied orange peel) and spreads. The initiative “Buy Croatian” is an excellent opportunity for us to present our products both to local and foreign visitors to the event”, pointed out Klaudija Krstičević. Vladimir Tomaić, owner of Tomaić Commerce from Otočac, regularly participates in the initiative. “It promotes local products and, in addition, gives us the opportunity for direct contact with customers. We focus on what customers are primarily interested in and move to meet their requirements. This initiative has definitely achieved great results”, believes Tomaić.
Branko Bočina
Klaudija Krstičević
Vladimir Tomaić
June 2017 | No 270 | PVinternational | 9
CONFECTIONERY INDUSTRY IN 2015
HEAD JUST ABOVE WATER The confectionery industry is burdened by high costs of basic raw materials such as cocoa beans and sugar. Moreover, it is faced with increasing pressure from cheaper products provided by competitors from those countries with a cheaper labour force, whilst some will be hammered by the latest events in Agrokor, through which they sell their products, resulting in a bleak outlook. Innovation and exports will be their only exit by Miro Soldić
T 4 entrepreneurs r involved in production of cocoa, chocolate and candy products in 2015
0.177 billion
€
total revenue generated by confectionery manufacturers in 2015
1.03 3million
€
the consolidated negative financial results from confectionery companies in 2015
he Croatian confectionery industry is faced with problems that are highly familiar in other sectors, as it is being stifled by cheap imports and expensive raw materials, whilst the crisis in Agrokor certainly negates their results. Nevertheless, local confectionery companies are still succeeding but the question is for how long will they manage to do so. According to data released by the Financial Agency, 2015 saw 14 entrepreneurs involved in the production of cocoa, chocolate and candy products, employing 2,233 staff, 2% up over 2014. These entrepreneurs presented consolidated negative financial results for 2015, of €1.03 million, which considerably down on 2014 when nett losses were €1.99 million. Of 14 companies involved in production of cocoa, chocolate and candy products, only 6 operated with positive results.
AVERAGE MONTHLY SALARY €722 Total revenue generated by confectionery producers in 2015 was €0.17 billion, 5.5% up compared with the previous year. There are three major players on the market: Kraš, Kandit and Zvečevo with a combined market share of 98%. Kraš appears to be the most successful generating revenue of €119 million, or 66.6% of total revenue generated. There is a similar percentage concerning the number of employees. In 2015 Kraš had 1,486 employees (66.5%) of a total of 2,233 employees. The level of consolidation is clearly shown by the fact that five leading market players account
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for 99.8% of total revenue, amongst whom, in addition to Kraš, Kandit and Zvečevo, are also Vasiljev from Trpinja and Slatke stvari from Šibenik. Total nett salaries and wages in the industry in 2015 stood at €19.35 million, with the average monthly nett salary of those employed was €722, 2.4% up compared with the previous period and 7.9% up in relation to the average monthly nett salary of persons em-
THERE ARE THREE MAJOR PLAYERS IN THE CROATIAN CONFECTIONERY MARKET: KRAŠ, KANDIT AND ZVEČEVO WITH A MARKET SHARE OF 98% ployed by entrepreneurs at the national level of employees nationally. This was mainly due to Kraš, with the highest average monthly nett salary of €840, and the average nett salary paid by its two largest competitors, being €552, and €452 respectively. Kraš was the only company to have operated profitably, (€1.56 million), whilst Kandit and Zvečevo were negative, with combined losses of €1.22 million.
June 2017 | No 270| PVinternational | 11
CONFECTIONERY INDUSTRY IN 2015 Industrial production Product name according to Nomenclature of Industrial Products for the Monthly Survey NIPUM 2009. (Official Gazette No.11/10)
Measurement unit
2014
2015
2016
Cakes and sweets
t
18,030
18,860
20,250
Biscuits and related products
t
27,607
28,406
28,374
Candies, chocolate and cocoa products
t
26,568
27,348
28,146
The data provided in this summary table refer to the Monthly Survey on Industrial Production and Persons Employed (IND-1/ KPS/M) in which data for companies and small businesses and crafts (legal entities with 20 and over 20 employees) is collected. The data for this survey is collected exclusively for the purpose of preparation of the Industrial Production Index and hence the data on quantities provided hereby needs to be considered as approximate, since the actual quantities are provided in the Annual Survey on Industrial Production IND-21/PRODCOM which is available nine months after the elapse of the reporting period and it needs to be considered as actual data on industrial production quantities and it normally differs from the data provided in IND-1/KPS/M.
Source: Croatian Bureau of Statistics
UPSWING IN EXPORTS, AS WELL AS IMPORTS
Investment into the modernisation of production in Zagreb-based factories, as well as affiliated companies Karolina Osijek and Mira Prijedor significantly affected the results achieved in 2016.
Damir Bulić, President of the Management Board in Kraš
One of the indicators wherein Kraš is not the market leader is labour productivity. According to data provided by Fina, Kandit is first at €101,542, above the national average of €100.206. The number of exporters in the sector rose by 40% (7in total) compared with 2014. On the other hand, the number of importers increased by 25% (5 in total). Total exports worth €71 million in 2015 increased by 12.3% compared with the previous year. Thus imports saw a rise of 18.2% (€59.6 million in 2015), resulting in a fall in the balance of trade of 10.9%. Data published by Fina refer to 2015 and, according to unaudited reports, it appears that in 2016 local confectionery manufacturers showed far better results. According to the financial report published by Kraš for last year, in 2016 the company generated a consolidated total revenue in excess of €0.13 billion. Sales came in at €0.133 billion, with local sales revenue accounting for €71.96 million, whilst exports were €62.5 million, growth of 4.6%. Total consolidated expenditure in 2016 was €132.3 million, a decrease of 1.7% compared with 2015. Gross profit generated by the company during 2016 was €47.79 million, with a gross margin of 35.53%, up by 1.8% over 2015. EBITDA was €12 million, €2.07 million up over the previous year, whilst EBITDA margins showed an upward trend to 8.84%. After total operating expenses, Kraš Group generated a profit before tax of €4.36 million, with nett profit of €3.4 million. “Working to meet the objectives concerning a constant rise in exports, during the business year 2016 export volumes increased by 3.6%. The percentage of exports within total sales reached 48.7%. Increases in exports were achieved particularly to Saudi Arabia, the US and Canada, as well as to European markets – primarily Austria, Malta, Germany, Sweden, Slovakia and Switzerland.
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The rise in exports was achieved through affiliated companies, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia and Macedonia. New and revised products also significantly affected the positive sales trend. It is important to note excellent results achieved through co-branding of strong brands by Kraš, primarily Dorina chocolates and Domaćica biscuits, as well as Dorina and Napolitanke chocolates, the children’s brand Ki-Ki, as well as Čokoladne napolitanke biscu-
ACCORDING TO UNAUDITED REPORTS, IT APPEARS THAT THE RESULTS ACHIEVED BY LOCAL CONFECTIONERY MANUFACTURERS IN 2016 WERE SUPERIOR COMPARED WITH 2015. its. The investment made into the modernisation of production in Zagreb-based factories, as well as in affiliated companies (Karolina Osijek and Mira Prijedor) greatly impacted on the results for 2016”, emphasised the President of the Management Board in Kraš, Damir Bulić. During the first six months of 2016 Kandit generated total revenue of €16.6 million, 12% up compared with the same period in 2015, with
Export and import of confectionery products Name of Nomenclature class
Exports 2015
Exports 2016
Index 16/15
USD
ton
EUR
USD
ton
EUR
EUR
Products made from sugar without cocoa
9,632,507
2,526
8,658,808
10,736,126
2,544
9,680,347
112
Cocoa powder, without added sugar
1,330,596
436
1,191,938
1,305,513
409
1,182,825
99
100,192,014
19,973
90,057,288
110,775,439
21,381
100,015,999
111
46,148,120
17,611
41,431,209
49,383,882
18,879
44,519,657
107
Chocolate and products containing cocoa Cakes and other bakery products Name of Nomenclature class
Products made from sugar without cocoa Cocoa powder, without added sugar Chocolate and products containing cocoa Cakes and other bakery products
Imports 2015
Imports 2016
Index 16/15
USD
ton
EUR
USD
ton
EUR
EUR
23,860,736
6,304
21,442,688
25,520,841
6,530
23,060,262
108
4,014,426
1,537
3,591,459
4,088,918
1,373
3,682,306
103
134,752,783
30,204
120,861,182
135,573,477
30,559
122,684,086
102
54,319,967
22,937
48,795,860
52,593,651
22,173
47,462,184
97
Source: Croatian Bureau of Statistics
profits of €0.16 million, and operating expenses of €16.25 million. Koestlin saw the end of the first half of 2016 showing total revenue of €5.3 million, 1% down over 2015, with nett profits doubling to €0.21 million. The business results were substantially impacted by exports and thus the company showed 5% growth to reach €2.86 million, whilst its major export markets (in which over 80% of revenue was generated), were Bosnia and Herzegovina, Poland, Slovenia and Great Britain. The local market underperformed, with sales dropping by 9%, to €2.1 million. Negative local trends were the consequence of stagnation and a decrease in product sales under the brands produced by Koestlin for all important retailers in Croatia, as explained by members of the Management Board at Koestlin.
ending to this saga is still uncertain. As previously noted, the Croatian confectionery industry, (with the exception of Kraš), is certainly not in good shape. Business operations are weighed down by the high costs of basic raw materials such as cocoa beans and sugar. Moreover, it is
CROATIAN COMPANIES WILL HAVE TO TRY A LOT HARDER IN ORDER TO CONQUER INTERNATIONAL MARKETS
THE SITUATION IN AGROKOR AFFECTS PERFORMANCE The revenue generated by Zvečevo over the first two quarters of 2016 increased by 12%, mainly due to their strong alcoholic drinks, as well as the branded chocolate product range, although sales of own-label chocolate brands saw a 5% reduction. Higher revenue was mainly generated through co-operation with the Tesco retail chain; the President of the Management Board at Zvečevo, Krunoslav Alvir, pointed out that retail chains usually exert huge pressure and require price cuts. “This trend results in a deflationary effect and a decrease in average selling prices, as well as operating profitability”, stated Alvir. The situation was also aggravated by the crisis in Agrokor, resulting in a freeze of the corporate accounts of Zvečevo at the beginning of the month. The
faced with increasing pressure from cheaper products provided by competitors originating from those countries with a cheaper labour force, and for some the latest events in Agrokor, through whom they sell their products, a bleak outlook is certain. Innovation and exports will be their only exit. The Croatian market is simply far too small and highly saturated to provide growth opportunities; any conquest of the international market will require substantial effort, since other countries are excellent at playing the card of protectionism. It is difficult to predict what the future holds. The Agrokor crisis occurred just at the point when the economic outlook started looking brighter, but now faces overall uncertainty. Those who survive will be fortunate.
Retail chains normally exert huge pressure and require price cuts. This results in a deflationary effect and decreases in average selling prices, as well as operating profitability.
Krunoslav Alvir, President of the Management Board in Zvečevo
June 2017 | No 270| PVinternational | 13
CONFERENCE CHALLENGES FOR CROATIAN ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY
WE ALL NEED TO BE ECO Economic diplomacy plays a crucial role in contemporary economic development. It has taken precedence over other types of diplomacy concerning its impact on economic stability, stressed Luka Burilović, President of the CCE by Krešimir Sočković
T
he Conference “Challenges of the Croatian Economic Diplomacy”, organised by the Croatian Chamber of Economy and Jutarnji list, was held recently, bringing together a large number of state officials, members of the academic community, entrepreneurs and economic experts in order to discuss feasible steps towards the most important export markets regionally and globally. Prior to the Conference, the CCE and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs initialled an Agreement on Promotion of Foreign Trade Co-operation. “Economic diplomacy plays a fundamental role in contemporary economic development. It has taken precedence over other types of diplomacy concerning its impact on economic stability”, stated Luka Burilović, President of the CCE. “A new era of Croatian economic diplomacy has arrived, by taking the successful Austrian model as a role model and following the initialling of the Agreement on Promotion of Foreign Trade Co-operation by the CCE and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs”, emphasised Burilović, adding that following the model provided by the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, Austrian outward foreign direct investment rose by 332%. “Only 15% of Croatian companies are currently involved in exports, which suggests there is ample potential for them”, he added, pointing out that everyone needs to be an ambassador of economic diplomacy.
DIPLOMACY ADAPTING TO CHANGE Marija Pejčinović Burić, State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, pointed out that over a period of 25 years Croatian diplomatic recognition, is both a short and a long period of time during which Croatia has encountered a wide range of challenges, amongst 14 | PVinternational | June 2017 | No 270
THE WORK OF THE AMBASSADORS NEEDS TO BE REDEFINED, SINCE RATHER THAN ADDRESSING POLITICAL ISSUES, THEY NEED TO FOCUS ON ECONOMIC PROBLEMS, BELIEVES KOLINDA GRABAR KITAROVIĆ which globalisation was the most difficult. “Croatia has established diplomatic relations with 194 countries and 87 consular representations. We have thus far been looking for an optimal model for the presentation of Croatia at a global level. We are about to hear about some invaluable experiences gained, like those from Austria. Diplomacy needs to adapt to the varying changes we have faced”, she said. “We need to be increasingly committed to the effective implementation of a comprehensive process of economic diplomacy, operating with reduced resources but with smart management and the Ministry followed these specific principles. Exporting was encouraged through co-operation with the CCE, simultaneously strengthening the position
of Croatian companies, whilst moving towards their internationalisation”, pointed out Marija Pejčinović Burić. “At the start of my term of office, I promised to be the first and best economic diplomat for Croatia and I have been working to achieve that goal since, by the promotion of the development of both small and large companies”, noted the President of the Republic, Kolinda Grabar Kitarović. “Openness and good economic relations are regrettably normally established only with regional markets. Other countries have achieved good results with those outside their neighbourhood also, and this is due to high quality economic diplomacy. The work of ambassadors needs to be redefined, since rather than addressing poli-
NOMIC AMBASSADORS tical issues, they need to focus on economic problems. We are insufficiently competitive and we do not yet have an embassy in some important markets. The policy pursued by the Ministry of Foreign and Economic Affairs over the past year has shown that economic policy ranks as the most important in foreign policy, following several years of a policy of self-sufficiency”, concluded Kolinda Grabar Kitarović. Michael Otter, Deputy Managing Director of the initiative Advantage Austria launched by the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, presented the Austrian model of economic diplomacy. In 2016, the value of Austrian exports of products and services was €131.2 billion achieved by 56,000 exporters. During the period 2002 to2016, the number of exporters rose by 294%. The Sector Advantage Austria comprises over 110 offices in 70+ countries and has 800 employees. “The new objective for Advantage Austria is encouraging innovation and networking amongst companies using global technologies intended to assist them in their business operations. During their study tours to Silicon Valley or Tokyo, Austrian companies are provided with the opportunity to learn from the best and work on successful marketing through co-operation with the top universities”, explained Otter.
ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY – A VITAL COG IN THE WHEEL During the panel discussion, which was attended by institutional representatives and entrepreneurs, Marin Pucar, President of the Management Board in Podravka, when commenting on a recent visit to Qatar, stated that it was the fourth step in breaking into that market. “We searching for a distributor there and I have to point out that we managed to sign a contract for $300.000, so our recent visit has certainly been highly successful. Simultaneously, our Vegeta is a separate brand and has been identified globally. Nevertheless, if we are aiming to implement our business ideas and position ourselves on international markets, we need to establish good po-
litical relations and that task needs to be accomplished by diplomacy”, believes Pucar. Ante Mandić, President of the Management Board of IN2, stressed the importance of economic diplomacy also for companies involved in IT. “Irrespective of the fact that our industry is considered global, all those companies involved in it are new to this market, whilst most companies currently positioned there are small, with under 100 employees. Nevertheless, we do not need warehouses and the industry does not operate in the same manner as other industries, so our approach to economic diplomacy also differs compared with some activities involved in production”, concluded Mandić. Marinko Došen, President of the Management Board of AD Plastik, whilst pointing out the challenges of penetrating large markets, such as that of Russia, stated that investment is an absolute imperative for growth. “Economic diplomacy is an important cog in the wheel. The specific objective of economic diplomacy is primarily the implementation of capital investment in
THE SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE OF ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY IS PRIMARILY THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CAPITAL INVESTMENT IN CROATIA, ACCORDING TO DOŠEN Croatia”, noted Došen. Zvonimir Viduka, President of the Management Board of Altpro, also highlighted that market penetration is the most difficult challenge. “We co-operate with agents and partners in order to succeed, yet assistance provided by commercial attachés would be considerably more effective”, concluded Viduka. June 2017 | No 270 | PVinternational | 15
ANALYSIS ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTIVITY IN THE FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY 201
FOCUS ON EXPORTS – A ROUTE FOR SURVIVAL The highest number of entrepreneurs involved in footwear manufacture is concentrated in Northwest Croatia, where 23 entrepreneurs who generated consolidated total revenue of €43.87 million are headquartered by Ilijana Grgić
74 entrepreneurs involved in footwear manufacture in 2015
110 0million
€
total consolidated revenue generated in 2015
1.5 5million
€
average revenue per entrepreneur in 2015
F
ew production activities in Croatia coped relatively successfully through the crisis which has marked the past several years in the Croatian economy, and footwear was one of them. According to an analysis conducted by the Financial Agency over a ten-year period with a special focus on 2005, 2010 and 2015, the number of footwear manufacturers saw negligible fluctuations. Most occurred in 2015, when 74 entrepreneurs were involved compared with 2010 when there were 69, whilst 2005 saw 73 entrepreneurs involved in this area. Of a total of 74 entrepreneurs in 2015, 47 operated profitably and 27 the reverse. The highest number of entrepreneurs involved in footwear is in Northwest Croatia, where 23 entrepreneurs are headquartered. This area ranked first according to total consolidated revenue of €43.8 million generated by entrepreneurs in 2015. 10 entrepreneurs were headquartered in Zagreb, and 8 in SplitDalmatia County. The fewest number of entrepreneurs was registered in the counties of Primorje-Gorski Kotar, Bjelovar-Bilogora and in Krapina-Zagorje County, each with one manufacturer.
FEWER EMPLOYEES, HIGHER SALARIES AND EXPORT GROWTH Following the comparison amongst the numbers of persons employed by entrepreneurs the conclusion was reached that the numbers employed in 2015 was down by 171 persons in relation to 2005 (-3%). The average monthly nett salary in 2015 was €456, up by 55.4% compared with the salary in 2005. Average 16 | PVinternational | June 2017 | No270
revenue per entrepreneur in 2005 was €1.17 million, reaching €1.4 million in 2010, and €1.5 million in 2015. The highest consolidated total revenue was generated in 2015, (€110million), 28% up over 2005. The percentage of export revenue in overall revenue generated ranged from 45% in 2005, to 58% in 2010 and 64% in 2015.
IN 2015, THE NUMBER EMPLOYED BY ENTREPRENEURS IN FOOTWEAR MANUFACTURE DROPPED BY 3.1% COMPARED WITH 2005 “It can be concluded that this is an extremely export-oriented industry, primarily in finishing works. During the observing period, this industry, as well as the textile industry, was faced with severe competition by countries from the Far East which sell their products on the Croatian market at low prices”, as stated in the commentary provided by Fina on their analysis. Entrepreneurs mainly involved in footwear manufacture generated the highest profit for the period in 2015 of €3.75 million, 34.3% up compared with 2010, and by 216.9% over
15
Basic financial results of entrepreneurial activity in footwear manufacturing – cross section 2005-20102015 (amounts expressed in ‘000 kuna, average salary in kuna) Number of entrepreneurs Number of profit-makers Number of loss-makers Number of persons employed Total revenue Total expenditure Pre-tax profit Pre-tax loss Income tax Profit for the period Loss for the period Consolidated results – profit (+) or loss (-) for the period Exports Imports Balance of trade (exports minus imports) Investment into long-term assets Average monthly nett salary paid per employee
2005 73 50 23 5,444 645,453 665,056 10,765 30,368 1,911 8,854 30,368 -22 291,500 133,660 158 44,022 2,200
2010 69 47 22 5,094 718,909 737,478 25,213 43,782 4,312 20,902 43,782 -22,880 415,490 135,808 279,681 42,264 2,721
2015 74 47 27 5,273 826,483 833,681 31,246 38,444 3,366 28,061 38,624 -10,564 528,745 140,422 388,323 69,666 3,419
Source: Fina
June 2017 | No 270| PVinternational | 17
ANALYSIS Top 10 entrepreneurs according to the total revenue generated in 2005 in footwear manufacturing industry
in footwear manufacturing industry
Top 10 entrepreneurs according to the total revenue generated in 2015 in footwear manufacturing industry
(amounts expressed in ‘000 kuna)
(amounts expressed in ‘000 kuna)
(amounts expressed in ‘000 kuna)
Name of entrepreneur
Total revenue
Top 10 entrepreneurs according to the total revenue generated in 2010 Name of entrepreneur
Total revenue
Name of entrepreneur
Total revenue
102,393
1
HAIX OBUĆA d.o.o.
120,364
89,027
2
BOROVO d.d.
108,095 93,322
1
IVANČICA d.d.
70,733
1
HAIX OBUĆA d.o.o.
2
JELEN d.d.
61,897
2
IVANČICA d.d.
3
SLOGA d.d.
55,473
3
INKOP OBUĆA d.o.o.
54,072
3
IVANČICA d.d.
4
INKOP OBUĆA d.o.o.
51,257
4
BOROVO GUMITRADE d.o.o.
40,491
4
FRASSON d.o.o.
57,439
5
VIKO d.o.o.
41,794
5
BOROVO-KOŽNA OBUĆA d.o.o.
36,882
5
INKOP OBUĆA d.o.o.
37,491
6
MEISO d.d. Goričan
32,620
6
BAMBI d.o.o.
28,908
6
SILENS d.o.o.
32,680
7
SIGA d.o.o.
30,502
7
VIKO d.o.o.
26,938
7
PROIZVODNJA PG d.o.o.
28,226
8
BOROVO-KOŽNA OBUĆA d.o.o.
27,088
8
MEISO d.d. Goričan
25,276
8
MEISO d.d. GORIČAN
27,196
9
Bambi Blanka i Tomislav Skoko
25,071
9
SIGA d.o.o.
24,892
9
Finesa Consors d.o.o.
26,854
10
PROVEL d.o.o.
19,108
10
MIDAL d.o.o.
23,180
10
MIDAL d.o.o.
26,368
Source: Fina
2005. The largest loss for the period was shown in 2010, at €5.84 million, up 13.4% in relation to 2015. Borovo showed the largest loss of €2.6 million in 2015. Entrepreneurs operated with negative results throughout the three observed periods, showing a highest loss of €3.05 million in 2010.
The value of investment into new long-term assets in 2005 was €5.87 million, compared with €9.29 million in 2015. The largest investor in 2005 was Šimecki under bankruptcy, at €4.17 million implemented in new long-term assets, whilst in 2015 Haix Obuća invested €7.71 million.
IVANČICA, INKOP OBUĆA AND MEISO GENERATED HIGHEST REVENUE When comparing 2005, 2010 and 2015 according to total consolidated revenue generated, it is evident that the top 10 entrepreneurs in 2015 generated the highest amount of €74.4 million, whilst the highest total consolidated revenue of
NADA ZVER, PRESIDENT OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD IN IVANČICA
WE ARE OFTEN FACED WITH EMPLOYEE TURNOVER Ivančica, as is the case with all other businesses, is also faced with the impact of the economic crisis. Sources at the factory, which is primarily a children’s footwear manufacturer, quoted that, prior to Croatian EU accession, its overall business operations were negatively affected by the economic crisis. “Croatian EU accession was a turning point concerning exports, which greatly helped market access for small interested buyers, as well as entry into large online stores. 2016 saw significantly better operating key indicators compared with previous periods. Concerning revenue in 2016, over 50% of operating revenue was generated mainly through exports of our own brand and this trend is continuing into 2017”, stated the President of the Management Board in Ivančica, Nada Zver, stressing that their children’s footwear is sold in over 40 countries globally, where Ivančica has over
18 | PVinternational | June 2017 | No270
700 partners-distributors. The EU market is the priority. The President of the Management Board emphasised that the manufacturing sector, and primarily footwear manufacturing, is currently faced with huge challenges, since the company has the potential for further growth opportunities, but is simultaneously faced
with concerns over the implementation, against the backdrop of labour turnover. “As is the case with other businesses, we are often faced with employee turnover, as a result of the openness of the European labour market. The issue of labour shortages in manufacturing is a consequence of labour turnover, which has negative effects on further business processes. The company currently employs 746 workers, 599 of whom are women. Their average age is almost 44, and their average work experience is over 23 years”, noted Nada Zver, highlighting the fact that a rise in nett salary paid to employees is also a fundamental issue, whilst moving towards achieving further growth. The company is currently unable to make a significant rise in the increase in salaries independently or without assistance, and solutions provided at the national level.
INVESTMENT IN LONG-TERM ASSETS IN 2005 WAS €5.9 MILLION, COMPARED WITH €9.3 MILLION IN 2015 €110 million was generated in footwear production the same year. According to the comparison between entrepreneurial rankings based on the total revenue generated in 2005, 2010 and 2015, three companies appeared on the three lists analysed, namely Ivančica, Inkop Obuća and Meiso. In 2005, Ivančica, with 700 employees, showed the highest revenue of €9.43 million. The highest profit level in 2005 was Siga (€0.2 million). On the other hand, in 20015the Sloga footwear factory under bankruptcy showed the largest loss of €1.57 million. The bankruptcy proceedings over this factory began on 3rd August 2009 and
were completed on 3rd November 2011 following which the Commercial Court of Varaždin deleted the company from the Register. In 2010, Ivančica generated the largest profit of €0.6 million, whilst Haix Obuća was first amongst top 10 entrepreneurs according to total revenue generated with €13.7 million. The greatest loss, of €2.09 million was by Sloga under bankruptcy, which contributed to the nega-
tive business results achieved by entrepreneurs in 2010. Moreover, in 2015 Haix Obuća showed the highest total revenue generated at €16.05 million, which accounted for 14.6% of total revenue generated by all 74 entrepreneurs involved. The company recorded profits for the period of €1.45 million and employed 685 employees with an average monthly nett salary of €469.
MARIO LEŠINA, PRESIDENT OF THE LEATHER PROCESSING INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION AT THE CCE
BUSINESS OPERATIONS ARE COMPLICATED BY EXTERNAL FACTORS Throughout the recession period, the leather and leather products industry saw positive trends, a rise both in turnover and employment, yet companies based on the local market did not succeed in living through it. Export-oriented companies operate according to the model of externalisation as subsidiaries, or foreign investment, or as contracted strategic partners of foreign companies. Considering the fact that the recession on major export markets – in Austria and Germany – did not last long, it did not significantly impact business operations. It is also important to note that the value of footwear purchase in Europe is currently marginal, or it can hardly be lower and so negative market trends in this industry do not make a linear impact. The situation is currently stable, notwithstanding a slowdown in
growth rates, which was the result of labour shortages. The industry is mainly based in Northwest Croatia where unemployment rates are at almost a natural level, whilst the numbers of retired exceed those entering the labour force. Business operations are complicated by external factors. The Kuna exchange rate is the major problem. It has strengthened around 5% against the euro and, since over 90% of the revenue in this industry is expressed in euro, turnover has seen a linear drop of 5% which has jeopardised the profitability of companies. The second challenge we need to address is of strategic nature. For a number of years the education system has not provided human assets who are fully prepared for the challenges of work and it is becoming increasingly difficult to replace workers after retirement. The estimated rate of retirement
currently stands at 3% and employers are investing resources initially intended for development and promotion of the company into training new staff, which will have huge negative repercussions in the long term, pointed out Mario Lešina, President of the Leather Processing Industries Association at the CCE.
June 2017 | No 270| PVinternational | 19
GRUBIŠNO POLJE
BIOMASS POWER PLANT CONSTRUCTION STARTS The construction of a cogeneration power plant to generate electricity and thermal energy from biomass currently ranks as the most valuable industrial investment project in the country by Goran Gazdek sed Energostatik, with the Finnish KPA is the contractor.
FINNISH CONTRACTORS OPERATING IN CROATIA FOR THE FIRST TIME
ALL EQUIPMENT USED TO BE MADE IN CROATIA, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF SPECIALISED EQUIPMENT
T
he construction of a cogeneration power plant for the generation of electricity and thermal energy from biomass has recently started in Grubišno Polje, a town of 7,500 inhabitants in Bjelovar-Bilogord. The investment is €35 million. The power plant, which will generate 5 MW of electricity and 6.5 MW of thermal energy, is currently the most valuable industrial investment project in the country. It will also include a wood drying system and an analytical laboratory, as well as its own transport logistics. Moreover, in co-operation with Bartola Kašića secondary school, an eco-park project with greenhouses will be launched using permaculture gardening techniques in which the Kockavica pupils’ co-operative will be involved in vegetable production. The investor is the Zagreb-ba-
20 | PVinternational | June 2017 | No270
“We have opted for this site, believing it to be in a town perfectly suited to meet our needs. We are delighted with the level of co-operation established with local authorities and it has to be noted that they have helped us in many aspects. We are aiming to generate electricity and thermal energy, in a totally environmentallyfriendly manner. Plant construction has finally started, following seven years of preparation. Irrespective of excessive administrative hurdles in Croatia, we have proved that it is possible to construct a power plant if one is provided with expertise, vitality, stamina, vision and provided one has established co-operation with local authorities”, noted the President of the Management Board of Energostatik, Emil Bakić. The construction work will take place at 3 sites - electric power plants will be constructed on one, the construction of sawmills and 24 state-of-the art wood drying plants for the Italian company, Florian will take place at the second site, with a substation will be constructed on the third site. 200 workers will be involved in the overall construction work, and the deadline is 18 months. All equipment will be made in Croatia, with the exception of specialised equipment that is produced externally. Representatives of the contractors, Pekka Kovanen and Artty Laitinen, stressed that this is the first time a Finnish company has been operating in Croatia and it will certainly not be the last. The power generated will be delivered to HEP electric power systems and, in addition to the use in their own plants, thermal energy will be used by factories located in the industrial zone, as well as all municipal institutions, schools, kindergartens and gymnasiums.
SARAJEVO BUSINESS FORUM 2017
Strategic objective of all regional countries is integration Open processes of good neighbourly relations and co-operation are keys to peace, political stability and economic development across the region, stressed Denis Zvizdić at the most large-scale investment event in Southeast Europe by Darko Buković
T
he eighth Sarajevo Business Forum 2017 (SBF), the International Investment Conference has brought together over 1,700 participants from 38 countries in Sarajevo – both politicians and investors, as well as projects aiming to openly discuss the opportunities for co-operation and potentially available financing opportunities for prepared projects. Almost 200 projects have been planned, mainly in Bosnia and Herzegovina, involving several economic activities - agriculture, energy, education, finance, infrastructure, construction, the services sector and tourism. On behalf of SBF organisers, the Director of Bosna Bank International, Amer Bukvić, highlighted the business importance of the Forum, as well as established public-private partnership as the highest achievement. Co-operation between different countries is crucial to attract regional investment noted Bukvić. He pointed out that 317 meetings were to be held by representatives of a variety of companies, 23% up compared with 2016, whilst it was simultaneously confirmed that SBF is the largest large-scale investment event in Southeast Europe.
POLITICS WITHIN FUNCTIONING ECONOMIES SBF was opened by the Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mladen Ivanić, who emphasised many of the advantages of Bosnia and Herzegovina which are normally ignored and frequently remain unnoticed, primarily due to the fact that people most commonly focus on addressing political
SBF BRIDGE AWARDS
Croatian M SAN Group among award winners The SBF Bridge Awards presentation ceremony was held within Sarajevo Business Forum 2017. The awards were given across five categories. HUB 387 won the award for the New Business of the Year, the Business of the Year Award went to HIFA Group. Gorenje Group from Slovenia was awarded as Innovator of the Year, and M SAN Group from Croatia won the Youth Employment Award. Hastor Foundation from Bosnia and Herzegovina was awarded the Social Impact Award.
issues. A different stance would certainly attract a large number of serious investors and make them opt for Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ivanić believes. He added that “foreign investors will be attracted only after domestic investors have achieved good results”. Denis Zvizdić, Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, also delivered a speech during the opening of SBF, pointing out that Bosnia and Herzegovina needs to be considered as a bridge between East and West, as well as a country abounding in natural resources, qualified and talented human assets, successful managers,
Nobel laureates and Academy Award winners. One of the most important panel discussions addressed the issue of co-operation amongst regional countries and the opportunities for joint appearances before international investors. Open processes of good neighbourly relations and co-operation are keys to peace, political stability and economic development across the region, stressed Zvizdić. Consequently, it was highlighted that the most important strategic objective for all countries was integration – both in terms of business and interests. June 2017 | No 270| PVinternational | 21
BELUPO OPENS A NEW FACTORY
A MAJOR GREEN-FIELD We have used all our expertise and creative potential to create new jobs and construct the new facility, noted Hrvoje Kolarić by Miro Soldić
Belupo is currently at the forefront of new product development. Cutting-edge technology is merely a cog in the wheel and human assets remain crucial. Many things can be purchased and supplied, yet tradition is built for many generations. Marin Pucar, President of the Management Board in Podravka and of the Supervisory Board of Belupo
T
he new Belupo factory of solid, semi-solid and liquid dose forms of pharmaceuticals has recently been opened, following four years of construction. It is a green-field site to the value of €70.2 million, financed internally (45%), and through loans granted by HBOR. Production of next generation pharmaceuticals is expected to begin in September at the facility which covers an area of 20,000 m2, most of which is dedicated to clean rooms. Cosmetics will initially be produced, whilst waiting for the licences required for pharmaceutical production. The production is to be export-oriented, focusing on 16 markets and particularly the Russian and Eastern European markets.
facility”, said Kolarić, adding that they are well aware of that new markets and innovations are imperative in order to secure a bright future, as well as highly-educated staff, which is the case for 1,400 employees currently in Belupo. The new facilities will boost production capacity by 150% compared with the current level and ensure the production of 100 million doses of medications annually. Marin Pucar, President of the Management Board at Podravka and the Supervisory Board of Belupo, pointed out that this is one of the most important green-field investment projects in the field of pharmaceutics regionally, which will enable the creation of 200 new jobs. “Croatia is frequently referred to as a not particularly attractive investment destination, yet we are currently witnessing the opposite. Over 90% of local construction contractors and equipment manufacturers have been involved in the project and a high level of value-added was created for the local economy”, pointed out Pucar. “Belupo is currently at the forefront of new product development; cutting-edge technology is merely a cog in the wheel and human assets remain crucial. Many things can be purchased and supplied, yet tradition is built for many generations”, he concluded.
OVER 50% OF REVENUE GENERATED THROUGH EXPORTS Hrvoje Kolarić, President of the Management Board of Belupo, pointed out that the construction of the factory required substantial investment. “We have been constantly investing in Belupo since its inception 47 years ago, and thus we currently stand as the second largest pharmaceutical company in Croatia, as well as amongst the most attractive employers. We are mainly exportoriented and over 50% of revenue is generated in this manner. We have used all our skills, knowledge and creative potential to create new jobs and construct the new 22 | PVinternational errn ern e rnat ati a tiio t on ona n na al | June Ju Jun Ju un ne 2017 2017 017 01 17 | No270 No2 N No o2 o 270 70
Prime Minister Andrej Plenković highlighted that he was delighted to open the factory that will employ several hundred staff, which is an immense success for Koprivnica. He emphasised current economic indicators and GDP growth projections that are being re-
INVESTMENT
Prime Minister of Croatia Andrej Plenković, Marin Pucar, Ljiljana Šapina i Hrvoje Kolarić
vised upwards, as well as a reduction in public debt, which brings us closer towards meeting the criteria for joining the Eurozone. “We are delighted with the rise of industrial production, exports and consumption, as well as the drop in unemployment rates. Even the European Commission has released its forecasts for a
INVESTMENT WAS 45% FINANCED INTERNALLY, WITH THE BALANCE GRANTED THROUGH HBOR LOANS drop in unemployment below 10% by 2019”, he stressed with a promise to continue the implementation of structural reforms intended to provide a more effective judiciary, as well as health care and pension systems.
THE RIGHT DEVELOPMENT PATH “Projects such as this factory are the right path towards the development of the city of
Koprivnica, as well as North Croatia and, in general, the entire country. Belupo and Podravka are the pinnacles of the Croatian economy and the Croatian government and all institutions work to provide all required support and assistance in order to create a more satisfactory framework for their operations”, noted Plenković. It has to be noted that the opening of the factory coincided with local elections and the opposition complained, showing their discontent that the Prime Minister opened the factory five days before the elections, irrespective of the fact that the factory will actually start production only in September. Sources at Belupo explained that commercial production of the first segment of products will begin in May, comprising of special purpose cosmetics, whilst the remaining segment of the facility is still undergoing validation, which is the usual procedure. “In accordance with the requirements of the regulatory agencies, the facilities cannot currently be presented to the public, as production is starting and so, in line with best practice in production, the opening of the factory was scheduled for this particular time, just prior to the start of commercial production”, stated Snježana Foschio Bartol, spokeswoman for Belupo.
70.2
over € million
of investment by Belupo
100 0 million doses of pharmaceuticals annually at new facilities
200 new jobs created by this green-field investment
June 2017 | No 270| PVinternational | 23
FORUM ON DUAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION
HOW TO HARMONISE EDU ED REQUIREMENTS? It is a well-known fact that the unemployed persons in Croatia are primarily young people who have recently completed their secondary education programmes, which clearly shows the fact that reforms in the vocational education system are imperative, noted Martina Dalić by Ilijana Grgić SWISS EXPERIENCE INVALUABLE
I Some German companies offered to select several schools where to implement dual education starting from next academic year. Pavo Barišić, Minister of Science and Education
mproving the quality of vocational education is extremely important for Croatia, whilst the tradition and experience gained by Switzerland, Germany and Austria in this field can provide substantial assistance, as has been pointed out during the Forum on Dual Vocational Education, recently held in Zagreb organised by the embassies of these three European countries in Croatia. In addition to Austria and Germany, Switzerland is also an example of successful harmonisation of educational system and economic requirements. There are around 230 professional profiles within the Swiss dual education system provided for students, for which there is interest on the labour market. In Switzerland almost 40% of companies currently meet the requirements for dual education and they could also greatly benefit from this education model, considering the fact that the students generate profit from the performance of work during the final year of the educational programme they have opted for.
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The Bern-based Commercial-Industrial Vocational School is attended by 7,700 pupils who are being educated for around 70 occupations and provided 44 specialisations, whilst their Director Sonja Morgenegg Marti, who provided an overview of the international perspective of dual education at the Forum, highlighted the inextricable ties between schooling and the real sector. “The Swiss dual education is both interesting and simultaneously also rather complex. Following nine years of compulsory education, one can opt for dual vocational education. Similarly, one is always given the opportunity for further professional development. The fact that three quarters of young people in Switzerland have opted for dual education clearly shows its attractiveness”, stressed Sonja Morgenegg Marti, adding that this type of education still implies some risks. “Concerning the IT field the technology has been advancing at such incredible pace that sometimes what we have just implemented is already considered as a second level”, stated Sonja Morgenegg Marti, pointing out that the advantages of this type of education still outweigh the disadvantages, whilst high employability is crucial.
OBSTACLES ARE BEING TACKLED Martina Dalić, Vice-President of the Croatian government, highlighted the current discrepancy between education system and the requirements on the labour market and in the economy, as well as the requirement for the strengthening of a Unique Education model, whilst striving to establish an effective education system. This system will generate the labour force that, following the completion of the educational programmes, will be provided with all the skills required to complete work assignments. “It is a well-known fact that the unemployed persons in Croatia are primarily
DUCATION UCATION AND ECONOMIC LUKA BURILOVIĆ, PRESIDENT AT THE CCE
High time for a reform tailored to meet economic requirements Challenges posed by dual education have been identified also by the Croatian Chamber of Economy which is striving to provide vocational education tailored to meet economic requirements, primarily through the launch of the Croatian dual education model and entrepreneurial learning. As has been pointed out by the sources at the CCE, dual education will give businesses the opportunity to become involved in long-term planning of their human assets, whereas pupils will be provided a higher quality education which will present them with superior opportunities on the labour market. “CCE members show the requirement for labour force import, as there is a labour force shortage by around 20,000 workers on an annualised level. We are facing a highly illogical situation in which business
people have been showing an increasing need for import of foreign labour, whilst simultaneously youth unemployment has been continuously rising”, stressed the President of the CCE Luka Burilović, adding that dual vocational education is one of the measures that could greatly
young people who have recently completed their secondary education programmes, which clearly shows reforms in the vocational education system are imperative in order to enable the pupils attending vocational schools to be more effectively integrated in companies, craft businesses and other small and medium-sized businesses where they are supposed to work”, emphasised Martina Dalić, stating that everyone has been focused on two major specific objectives – the removal of difficulties and obstacles to enable the launch of pilot projects in dual vocational education as soon as during the forthcoming academic year. Pavo Barišić, Minister of Science and Education concluded that some of the obstacles within the scope of his Ministry have been tackled, such as signing contracts with employers that previously needed to be signed at the commencement of the academic year, whilst they can currently be signed also during the second semester. “Moreover, the certificate issued by a physician specialised in Occupational Medicine need not be submitted at the commencement, but it can also be provided throughout the second semester medicine.
help in addressing this issue. “According to research findings and survey results, 80% of the Croatian companies show support for this education model. Croatian role models are Austria, Switzerland and Germany in co-operation with whom we are striving to promote vocational education. There are challenges to be faced, yet the CCE has great potential both concerning the infrastructure and at the regional level, which can enable speedy involvement of any region of our country. It is high time to implement the education reform tailored to meet the current requirements of the Croatian economy”, concluded Burilović. He added that it needs to be implemented at three levels: bot at the national and the legislative level, as help to employers and as a promotion of vocational education.
In addition, a broad range of other measures have been provided, ranging from programme
SOME OF THE OBSTACLES WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION HAVE BEEN REMOVED, CONCLUDED BARIŠIĆ promotion throughout the vocational schools, references for enrolment and a large number of scholarships, primarily concerning the most in-demand occupations. I would like to point out the flexibility in programme implementation depending on the requirements, as was the case, for example, in Glina, where a new specialisation for “wood-technician -designer” was launched for which there has been high demand during the last several years”, noted Minister Barišić, adding that some German companies offered to select several schools where to implement dual education starting from next academic year. June 2017 | No 270 | PVinternational | 25
LONELY PLANET: BEST IN EUROPE 2017
ZAGREB
– exciting and undiscovered Each year, The Lonely Planet, one of the leading international travel guides, publishes Best in Europe – a list of the most popular and most exciting, but less explored European destinations whose visit is a must-do. According to its rankings, Zagreb has been declared the best destination to visit this year, having been voted first across 10 European cities on the shortlist. The Lonely Planet sources explained their decision by pointing
out that the Croatian capital is frequently overshadowed by popular cities and resorts on the Adriatic coast. “Zagreb ranks top of our list, being a city that provides new programmes. Moreover, it is exciting and undiscovered, which gives the opportunity for visitors to discover it”, noted Tom Hall, Travel Information and Communications Manager at The Lonely Planet. In addition, it has been highlighted that Zagreb also attracts visitors since, on the one hand, there
are many city squares constructed in the Austro-Hungarian style, and on the other, its street art is increasingly prominent. Furthermore, Zagreb also provides a highly impressive gastronomic scenario. The travel guide also notes that the construction of the new airport has greatly contributed to easier and cheaper access to the capital. The list of top 10 destinations to visit includes Götland in Sweden rated second, followed by Galicia (Spain), northern
Montenegro, Leeds (Great Britain), Alentejo (Portugal), Northern Germany, Moldova, Paphos (Cyprus) and Le Havre in France. (S.P.)
AURA GIN KARBUN
The first Croatian gin with activated charcoal An Istrian gin Karbun has been created and inspired by the strength of the last coal miners (locally called karbunari) and the old tradition of coal (karbun) production on the slopes of Ćićarija. It is produced in the Aura Distillery in a very specific way. According to Mišel Sirotić, owner of the distillery, upon distillation gin undergoes a process of filtration through activated charcoal, which is extremely important as it traps toxins. Moreover, activated charcoal is highly effective in the purification of distillates
from pesticides and heavy metals. Istrian gin is served in a glass together with pieces of specially prepared activated charcoal (which is also edible). Nevertheless, it is important to note that the main ingredients are juniper berries, which are collected locally. The entire ‘experience’ is further enhanced by the ‘bottle’ being made from terracotta, which is also used as a reminder of the traditional method of coal mining in «karbunica» - specific constructions for coal mining covered in soil. The Aura Distillery is also involved in
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producing exclusive traditional Croatian products such as different flavours of brandy, jams and other local products made from wild herbs and wild fruit picked in an
unpolluted environment on the slopes of central Istria, far away from roads and population centres. The products contain no preservatives or artificial ingredients. (S.P.)