Tuesday, 17th June 2025

Unlocking Opportunities in BiH

Jure Peljhan, Chairman of the Board, Slovenian Association of Businesspeople BiH & Member of the Management Board of NLB Bank Sarajevo

What specific sectors or industries in BiH do you see as most promising for Slovenian businesses, and why?

― Several sectors in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) present opportunities for Slovenian enterprises to leverage their existing expertise. The energy sector offers potential for collaboration in renewable energy projects, particularly in hydropower, wind and solar, areas where Slovenia has significant experience. BiH’s transportation infrastructure modernisation—including roads, bridges, and railways—provides opportunities for construction and engineering firms.

Additionally, the development demand for modern residential and commercial properties invites expertise in construction, architecture, and urban planning. Opportunities also exist in the automotive sector, particularly for companies engaged in parts manufacturing and supply chain management. BiH’s rich natural and cultural assets offer growth prospects in tourism, especially for businesses focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly travel.

The ICT sector in BiH is expanding, providing investment opportunities in software development, IT services, and digital transformation, areas where Slovenia can contribute significantly. Upgrades in telecommunications infrastructure further create opportunities for Slovenian telecoms experts.

What unique advantages do Bosnia and Herzegovina offer Slovenian businesses, and how can they best leverage these advantages to succeed?

― BiH offers several unique advantages for Slovenian businesses, including close geographical proximity, cultural and historical ties, a favourable economic environment, and opportunities in diverse sectors. The close distance between the two countries enhances logistics and business relations. Shared cultural and historical backgrounds from their time in Yugoslavia simplify communication and business dealings. BiH’s developing economy and preferential trade agreements with the EU and CEFTA open up markets for goods and services, providing expansion opportunities.

The country’s lower labour costs compared to other European nations attract the manufacturing and labour-intensive industries. Rich in natural resources like timber and hydropower, BiH offers opportunities in energy and forestry. Ongoing reforms aimed at EU integration are improving the business environment and regulatory framework and increasing investment appeal. Supported by international funding, infrastructure development is a prime area for Slovenian expertise and investment. Additionally, BiH’s scenic landscapes and cultural heritage make it a promising market for investments in hospitality and tourism services. These factors collectively make BiH an attractive destination for Slovenian companies looking to explore new markets and capitalise on emerging opportunities..

Energy Collaboration

The energy sector offers potential for collaboration in renewable energy projects, particularly in hydropower, wind and solar, areas where Slovenia has significant experience.

Infrastructure Opportunities

BiH’s transportation infrastructure modernisation—including roads, bridges, and railways—provides opportunities for construction and engineering firms.

ICT Sector Expansion

The ICT sector in BiH is expanding, providing investment opportunities in software development, IT services and digital transformation, areas where Slovenia can contribute significantly..

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