The 32nd Kopaonik Business Forum is set to commence at the Kopaonik mountain resort in Serbia. This annual event, often referred to as the “Serbian Davos”, brings together prominent leaders from business, economics, science, technology, government and regional guests to discuss Serbia’s economic outlook and development strategies.
This year’s central theme is “Serbia 2027 – Striving for a High-Yield Economy.” Over the next four days, the forum will feature 38 panels, three sessions, four special events, and three guest addresses. Discussions will focus on the impacts of global conflicts and trade wars, particularly between the USA and China, and their effects on Europe, the Western Balkans, and consequently, Serbia.
Approximately 1,600 participants and 220 panelists are expected to attend. The forum will begin with a presentation titled “Expo 2027: Key to New Horizons, What Awaits Us in 2027.” The official opening is scheduled for tomorrow, with speeches from Aleksandar Vlahović, President of the Serbian Association of Economists; Jorgovanka Tabaković, Governor of the National Bank of Serbia; and Finance Minister Siniša Mali.
Vlahović has emphasized the importance of transitioning to a high-yield economy, noting that while the state has increased capital investments in recent years, achieving high yields also requires greater domestic private investments and an improved sectoral structure. He highlighted the need for investments in advanced technology sectors and a reformed education system to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
The forum will also address the challenges of declining domestic private investments, their concentration in traditional sectors, and the global economic environment’s influence on Serbia’s economy. Topics such as artificial intelligence, startups, innovations, and the development of a modern education system will be discussed.
Notable guests include economist Branko Milanović, Chinese entrepreneur Ge Jun and basketball coach Svetislav Pešić. Government officials, including several ministers, will also participate.
The Kopaonik Business Forum is organized by the Serbian Association of Economists and will run from March 2 to 5.
