Croatian exports up by 6.4% as trade deficit narrows

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ZAGREB, 11 June 2025 – Croatia’s goods exports have continued their steady upward trend this year, according to the latest figures from the Croatian Bureau of Statistics (DZS).

In the first four months of this year, Croatian exports reached €8.1 billion – a 6.4% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Imports also rose, up 4.8% to €14.7 billion.

As a result, the country’s trade deficit stood at €6.6 billion, with export coverage of imports recorded at 55.4%, Lider.hr reported.

The increase follows an 8.6% rise in exports during the first quarter of 2024, when the value of exports reached nearly €6.1 billion – approximately half a billion euros more than in the same period the year before.

Analysts have described the first-quarter results as better than expected, especially considering ongoing global trade uncertainty and shifting customs policies, particularly from the United States.

Trade with EU and Non-EU Markets Both on the Rise

Exports to European Union member states amounted to €5.4 billion between January and April, up 6.5% year-on-year. Exports to non-EU countries also grew, increasing by 6.4% to €2.8 billion.

On the import side, goods coming in from EU countries rose modestly by 0.7% to €11.3 billion. However, imports from non-EU countries saw a significant jump of 21.3%, reaching €3.4 billion.

Strong Annual Performance in 2024

Final data from DZS for the whole of 2024 shows that Croatian goods exports totalled €24 billion – an increase of around €1 billion or 5% compared to 2023. Meanwhile, imports climbed to €43 billion, up €3 billion or 8% year-on-year.

Notably, the growth in exports to the EU – which had stagnated throughout 2023 – also showed signs of recovery this year, contributing to the overall positive export figures.