LONDON – As the Western Balkans region is experiencing increased growth and inward investment, it is noted that potential exists in sectors as diverse as ICT, finance and services, agriculture, automotive parts and tourism.
This will be one of the main topic discussed at the FT Western Balkans Forum: Investment Opportunities in a Fast-Growing Region in London on June 18.
It is said that investors are attracted to the countries that make up the region – Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia – because of macroeconomic stability characterised by low inflation, low budget deficit and stable public debt.
“The region’s economies are improving their business environment and offering comparatively low labour and utility costs, combined with a favourable tax regime. However, challenges remain, with further reforms needed to speed up administration, improve trade flows, reduce red tape and develop workforce skills,” it is stated in the agenda.
This half-day event organised by the Financial Times and Western Balkans 6 Chamber Investment Forum will feature speeches, presentations, discussions and dialogues exploring the opportunities of investing in the region.
Guests will have the chance to listen to and network with political leaders and policymakers, business leaders who have invested in the region, as well as consultants, economists and officials from international financial institutions.
Some of the speakers will be Sir Suma Chakrabarti from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Ana Brnabić, Prime Minister of Serbia, Zoran Zaev, Prime Minister of North Macedonia, Edi Rama, Prime Minister of Albania, Marko Čadež, President of the Managing Board of the Western Balkan 6 Chamber Investment Forum and Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council.