Croatia and Bosnia reach record €4 billion in trade

Sarajevo

Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina have reached a record level of economic exchange, with bilateral trade hitting €4 billion in 2025, marking the highest level to date.

Speaking at the opening of the Mostar International Economic Fair 2026, Prime Minister Andrej Plenković emphasised that energy policy now goes beyond market considerations and plays a crucial role in national sovereignty.

He highlighted the importance of joint energy initiatives, particularly the Southern Gas Interconnection project, describing it as key not only for diversifying gas supply in Bosnia and Herzegovina but also for strengthening long-term stability and integration with Western energy networks.

Plenković warned that global developments, including tensions in the Middle East and potential disruptions such as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, have direct consequences for Europe through rising oil prices and economic uncertainty.

Despite global challenges, economic ties between the two nations continue to strengthen.

While trade currently stands at a ratio of 2:1 in favour of Croatian exports, Croatian investments in Bosnia and Herzegovina have exceeded €1.7 billion, underlining the depth of the partnership.

At the same time, Bosnian investors are increasingly active in Croatia, contributing to job creation and further cooperation.

Infrastructure development remains a key pillar of future growth. The completion of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s section of Corridor Vc, linking Budapest, Osijek, Sarajevo and the Port of Ploče, is expected to significantly enhance regional connectivity and trade flows.

Plenković also called for the swift opening of the Okučani–Gradiška border crossing, describing delays as increasingly unjustified.

Reaffirming Croatia’s support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European path, he stressed that accelerating EU enlargement presents a major opportunity, urging political leaders to advance reforms and strengthen institutional cooperation.

The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming Croatia’s commitment to continued partnership, investment and support for stability and development across Bosnia and Herzegovina.