35,000 sign petition against new tax measures as entrepreneurs demand withdrawal

Zagreb

ZAGREB, 8 June 2026 – Opposition is growing to the Croatian Government’s proposed anti-inflation package, with entrepreneurs, tradespeople and small landlords warning that planned tax changes could place additional pressure on small businesses and the wider economy.

The Association Voice of Entrepreneurs (Glas poduzetnika) has collected 35,000 signatures through its “No to New Levies” petition, calling on the Government to withdraw proposals that would increase flat-rate tax obligations for tradespeople and small-scale accommodation providers.

Representatives of the business association argue that the measures could negatively affect entrepreneurship and economic activity. They have also indicated that protests remain a possibility if discussions with the Government fail to produce a compromise.

The issue was the focus of two separate meetings held on Monday at the Ministry of Finance. Finance Minister Marko Primorac met representatives of the Croatian Chamber of Trades and Crafts (HOK), while officials from the Ministry separately met representatives of Glas poduzetnika.

According to reports from the meetings, discussions centred on the planned increase in flat-rate tax payments for tradespeople and small landlords, as well as the potential impact of the measures on micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, HRT said.

Business representatives have also called for greater involvement of small entrepreneurs in the policy-making process, arguing that those directly affected by the measures should be included in consultations before decisions are finalised.

Dalibor Kratohvil, President of the Croatian Chamber of Trades and Crafts, described the meeting with the Finance Minister as constructive. He said both sides presented their arguments and proposals and agreed to continue discussions through further meetings aimed at finding solutions that would benefit Croatian tradespeople.

Glas poduzetnika presented three key requests during its talks with ministry officials. The association is seeking the withdrawal of the proposal in its current form, the introduction of impact assessments before similar measures are proposed in the future, and a principle whereby any increase in financial obligations is balanced by reductions elsewhere.

The association has also requested that recognised representatives of small entrepreneurs, landlords and tradespeople be formally included in future discussions with the Government.

Dražen Oreščanin, a member of the association’s supervisory board, said the organisation believes policy decisions should be based on detailed analysis and consultation with affected stakeholders.

Meanwhile, Lana Šiljeg, Deputy President of Glas poduzetnika, warned that the proposed measures could have wider consequences for the economy. She said the association intends to continue pursuing its concerns through institutional channels while keeping all options open.

Further talks between the Government and business representatives are expected in the coming weeks as discussions continue over the final shape of the anti-inflation package, which is due to take effect at the beginning of next year.