Croatia – A role model for other countries in Southeastern Europe?

Vienna, October 24, 2007. Dr. Vladimir Preveden, Managing Director of Roland Berger Strategy Consultants' Zagreb Office, held a presentation on the topic of "Croatia – a role model for other countries in Southeastern Europe?" This was part of a conference hosted by the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM) in Vienna.

Dr. Vladimir Preveden's presentation discusses the Southeastern European region, compares Croatia to other countries in this region and presents some very interesting conclusions.

Southeastern Europe is a key economic area in the CEE where the race for the top position in many industries is still going on. This region has the third strongest economy in CEE, but is nevertheless often neglected.

Croatia has some key advantages compared to other countries in Southeastern Europe. The Croatians' mentality is very similar to that of the Austrians, and the country is physically very close to Germany and Austria. Croatia also has a sound infrastructure and is the interface between two key pan-European corridors V and X.

However, there are also problems that domestic and international companies must face when doing business in Croatia. These include a different business culture, inane rules and regulations, travel restrictions, bureaucracy and high taxes.

In order for Croatia to serve as a role model for other countries in Southeastern Europe, it must get rid of these internal barriers and focus on joining the EU.

In any case, Croatia provides an excellent basis for doing business in the entire region.