Most inflows have been “brownfield” investments aimed at the domestic market, while the country lacks “greenfield” projects that boost exports, jobs, and productivity.

Following EU accession, investor interest has grown, but challenges remain: Croatia is not yet a well-established investment destination, legal uncertainty persists, and procedures are complex. A key advantage is the availability of skilled workers, but there is no systematic database on workforce skills, wages, and education.

AmCham recommendations:

• Develop a Human Capital Map of Croatia with detailed workforce data by region and profession.
• Use the European Social Fund (ESF) to finance research and skills development.
• Increase transparency and accessibility of workforce information for investors.

The goal is to attract more export-oriented investments, create jobs, and strengthen Croatia’s competitiveness.