Sarajevo, BiH – 90% of FIC members recommend Bosnia and Herzegovina as an investment destination, while 68% plan new investments in the coming years, according to the Business Barometer for 2025!
Foreign investments remain one of the most important drivers of international economic cooperation and host country development. They enable domestic companies to connect with foreign partners, creating opportunities for technology transfer, skills development, capacity building, and market expansion. Such projects directly increase the efficiency and competitiveness of local enterprises, generate new jobs, and stimulate overall economic growth, especially in transition economies, including Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kanton Sarajevo recognizes the strategic importance of foreign investments and continues to work on improving the business environment. However, its complex administrative structure and fragmented regulatory system still present challenges for investors. For this reason, the members of the Foreign Investors Council in BiH (FIC) have prepared the fourth edition of the Business Barometer, aiming to provide relevant information and recommendations to authorities to create more favorable investment conditions and enhance the position of existing investors.
Analysis of recent years shows that, despite challenges, investors in BiH demonstrate a high degree of resilience and adaptability. Many companies have implemented new projects, expanded production capacities, and improved internal processes, confirming the country’s potential for long-term investment. These positive examples highlight that BiH possesses resources, knowledge, and strategic advantages that, if further utilized, can significantly enhance the investment climate.
Although 38% of FIC members express moderate dissatisfaction with the business environment—the high level of market confidence is evident from the fact that 90% of FIC members recommend BiH as an investment destination, while 68% plan new investments in the coming years.
Employment plans also indicate a positive trend. More than half of FIC members (63%) intend to increase the number of employees over the next three years. The highest demand is for highly educated professionals, particularly in economic and technical fields, while skilled workers in vocational and craft professions are also in significant demand. This emphasis on human resources highlights the importance of continuously aligning the education system with labor market needs.
Geographic proximity to the European Union, availability of qualified labor, and low corporate profit tax and VAT rates are identified as key advantages of BiH. Leveraging these factors provides a strong basis for attracting new investments and strengthening the country’s economic stability.
The comprehensive insights presented in this report provide a clear picture of the current state of foreign investments, identify advantages and challenges, and offer guidance for designing policies that improve the business climate, strengthen investors’ positions, and contribute to the long-term economic growth of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The full Business Barometer 2025 is now available for investors to review the complete research and findings.
