Last year was a record year for the export of ICT services. We exceeded all expectations, with ICT exports surpassing 4.1 billion euros. Compared to 2012, when exports were only 375 million euros, this represents an increase of more than 11 times,” said Jovanović in an interview with B92.net.
He also highlighted that the surplus in the sector is well over three billion euros.
“Our ICT sector is becoming one of the most important sectors in the Republic of Serbia. The surplus in the ICT sector is greater than the combined surplus from the export of agricultural products, tobacco, cars, and machinery. We are aware that the beginning of the year was marked by significant global geopolitical upheavals. The economic situation in Europe is challenging, with Germany in recession, and Serbia is also facing political challenges in the first two months of this year,” Jovanović said.
In response to this, the Government of the Republic of Serbia is increasing investments in digitalization and innovation through the IT Administration Office. “The Serbian government is preparing to invest even more significant funds, and this year we expect the launch of two major projects—the Lozionica building near the Mostar Loop in Belgrade and the first building of the Innovation District in Kragujevac, which will also be launched this year,” Jovanović added.
According to him, plans are underway for large expansions of the state Data Center in Kragujevac, as well as the procurement of a new supercomputer, which will be installed by the end of the year.
“Regarding the development of e-government services, we are preparing to implement artificial intelligence significantly in the development of e-government services and in the healthcare system for the digitalization of health. Specifically, we will launch a new service aimed at foreigners. In April, we are preparing to fully launch electronic visas, allowing anyone coming to Serbia to apply electronically for a visa to participate in EXPO 2027,” Jovanović said.
The visa application process will be very fast and simple, he explained, as everything will be done through an online portal, and the visa will be sent electronically via email.
Regarding eSick Leave, Jovanović mentioned that work is being done intensively on this complex system, which is important for both citizens and the healthcare system.
“We expect this system to be implemented during the year. It is complex because it connects all healthcare institutions with the Republic Health Insurance Fund. Additionally, the IT e-Government Office is overseeing the realization of this system,” Jovanović concluded.
