Serbia is poised to become the regional leader in foreign direct investments (FDI) by the end of the year, according to Minister of Economy, Adriana Mesarović. She revealed that by December 10, Serbia had already achieved an official FDI total of 4.5 billion euros for 2023. “By the end of the year, this amount will be even higher, and we will be leaders in the region regarding FDI. We will also advance on the global investment map, stepping up as a country with an investment-grade rating. I believe 2025 will bring even more recognition for what President Aleksandar Vučić has done since 2012 to strengthen our economy,” Mesarović told RTV, as reported by Tanjug.
The Minister also addressed the ongoing political debate about the distinction between foreign and domestic investments. She argued that such divisions, which some opposition parties are attempting to emphasize, are unnecessary, as both domestic and foreign sectors operate under the same conditions.
Mesarović highlighted the Ministry of Economy’s recent support for Jumis, an export-oriented company based in Niš with more than 300 employees. She recalled how, in 2012, Serbia faced the closure of major factories, but thanks to President Vučić’s leadership, the country began its economic recovery and implemented necessary reforms.
“Today, we are focused on capital-intensive investments. For example, Leoni, a foreign investor, has 600 suppliers in Serbia. Isn’t that enough to stimulate the domestic economy?” Mesarović asked.
The Ministry’s focus this year, she noted, has been on supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Following an initiative from the President and Prime Minister, the Ministry introduced new programs to better support these categories of businesses, helping to enhance their competitiveness. Currently, Serbia has 353,000 registered entrepreneurs, including over 115,000 women entrepreneurs, as well as 110,000 registered MSMEs. The Ministry has allocated 5.3 billion dinars across eight different support programs.
Mesarović also emphasized the Ministry’s efforts to empower women entrepreneurs, particularly in rural areas. Through one of the programs, the Ministry has provided grants to 104 women, each receiving 500,000 dinars, which can be used for purchasing raw materials and equipment to support their family businesses. She also mentioned the high demand for the “Single Mother Entrepreneur” program, which further supports female entrepreneurship in Serbia.
“Today, it’s easier to develop entrepreneurship in Serbia, which is economically strong and peaceful. Entrepreneurship can thrive in a country that has prosperity,” Mesarović pointed out.
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, highlighting the collaborative efforts of President Vučić and Prime Minister Vučević, who are fully dedicated to the country’s growth. Mesarović announced that, following the initiative of the Prime Minister, 31 contracts would be signed on Monday, benefiting 31 municipalities. These contracts will contribute to the development of industrial zones, with Pećinci’s industrial zone serving as one key example.
These announcements reflect Serbia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its economy, foster entrepreneurship, and position itself as a leader in the region.
