Economy in Slovenia

SLOVENIA has a strategic location and quality infrastructure

Slovenia lies right in the middle of one of the world's most exciting business regions. It sits on the intersection of several of Europe's historical crossroads. Transport by rail and road prevails over air traffic due to Slovenia’s short distances. And unlike many Central and Eastern European countries, Slovenia also has direct access to the sea through the Port of Koper . Ships coming into the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal can save 5-10 days and up to 3,700 km by using the southern sea-route access to Central Europe.

 

SLOVENIA is a member of the Europe Union since 1.May 2004

On 1 January 2007 Slovenia adopted the euro as the national currency. The country entered the euro area with an exchange rate of 239.64 tolars to the euro, becoming the 13th member of the euro area, and the first of the ten 2004 EU newcomers, to adopt the common European currency.

 

SLOVENIA has a stable political and economic environment

Since gaining independence until the present day, Slovenia has made important progress in economic development and has achieved a higher standard of living. Economic growth was pursued in a stable macroeconomic environment, whilst the main factors of economic growth were high exports and investment activities, the latter particularly in the nineties. Thus, Slovenia managed to reduce the gap behind the EU average.

 

Key macroeconomic indicators (2006)

GDP at current prices: EUR 29.5 bn
GDP per capita: EUR 14,700
GDP growth rate: 5.1%
Exports: 65% GDP
Exports of goods and services: EUR 20.2 bn
Imports of goods and services: EUR 20.9 bn
Inflation: 5%
Unemployment (ILO): 6.4%

 

SLOVENIA is a country with great opportunities for potential business partners

The legislation in line with EU standards, the simplicity of starting a business, low taxes, the unrestricted transfer of profit and capital repatriation, the Government's pro-investment stance etc. have created a pro-business climate.