The City of Dubrovnik is currently undertaking numerous projects, 19 in total, aimed at improving infrastructure and the quality of life for its residents. These investments cover a wide range of activities, including major capital projects and those selected through participatory budgeting, all aimed at fostering balanced development across the city.

Planning continues for new capital investments in 2025, supported by significant funding from grants. These projects, which include the renovation of public buildings, the development of public spaces, and improvements to green infrastructure, are contributing to the ongoing growth and enhancement of life in Dubrovnik.

"The City of Dubrovnik is committed to investing in projects that will provide better living conditions and a more beautiful environment for all its citizens," stated the City. 

The President of the Republic of Croatia, Zoran Milanović, formally received the credentials of H.E. Mitsuhiro Wada, the Ambassador of Japan to Croatia, at a ceremony held in Zagreb yesterday.

Ambassador Wada was accompanied by his spouse, Naoko Wada, as well as Tatsuyuki Ueda, Counsellor at the Embassy of Japan, and Ryohei Nakajima, First Secretary at the Embassy.

Joining President Milanović for the occasion were Neven Pelicarić, Adviser to the President for Foreign and European Policy; Petar Mihatov, Director-General of the Directorate-General for Political Affairs; and Ivan Mutavdžić, Secretary in the Cabinet for Foreign and European Policy.

Thanks to the growth in consumption and investments, Croatia's economy continued to grow in the third quarter of this year, marking the 15th consecutive quarter of expansion, with a year-on-year increase of 3.9%, surpassing the growth rate of the previous quarter.

The Croatian Bureau of Statistics (DZS) published its preliminary estimate on Wednesday, indicating that the gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 3.9% in real terms in the third quarter compared to the same period last year.

This marks the 15th consecutive quarter of economic growth, and at a faster pace than the previous quarter, which saw a growth rate of 3.5%.

Growth in Consumption and Investments

According to DZS data, household consumption, the largest component of GDP, rose by 5.5% in the last quarter compared to the same period last year. However, this was slower than the 6% growth recorded in the previous quarter.

Gross fixed capital investment increased by 9.2% year-on-year, which was slower than the 11.7% growth recorded in the previous quarter.

Public Spending and Trade

Government spending also increased by 5.3%, following a 3.8% rise in the previous quarter.

Imports of goods and services rose by 4.1%, slower than the 5.2% increase in the previous quarter. Specifically, imports of goods increased by 3%, while imports of services surged by 9.6%.

Exports of goods and services grew by 1.5% year-on-year in the last quarter, rebounding from a 1.3% decline in the previous quarter. Within this, exports of goods increased by 6.3%, while exports of services fell by 1.8%.

Growth Above EU Average

Seasonally adjusted DZS data shows that the economy grew by 4.1% year-on-year and 0.8% quarter-on-quarter in the third quarter.

This growth rate significantly outpaced the EU average. According to Eurostat, the EU economy grew by 0.3% quarter-on-quarter and 1% year-on-year in the last quarter, based on seasonally adjusted data.

The eurozone economy grew by 0.4% quarter-on-quarter and 0.9% year-on-year during the same period.

An iconic photo of Dubrovnik featured in The Times Travel section and grabbed the attention of UK readers. The UK is Dubrovnik’s most important travel market and such exposure will only help to attract even more British tourists.

“This morning, the iconic beauty of Dubrovnik was turning heads in the London Underground, featured in The Times Travel section. Seeing Dubrovnik showcased in such a prominent way is a proud moment for all of us who know just how special this city truly is,” commented the Dubrovnik Tourist Board on the photo in The Times.

And the city truly looks marvelous.

Twenty-two Croatian winemakers showcased their wines at the international Wine Vision by Open Balkan fair, held in Belgrade from November 22 to 24.

The Croatian Chamber of Economy (HGK) organized their participation in collaboration with regional wine associations Graševina Croatica, Vino Dalmacije, and Bregovita Hrvatska.

The event brought together 700 exhibitors from 38 countries, according to an HGK press release.

Only 526 Croatian nationals relocated to Ireland in the first nine months of 2024, reflecting a sharp decline in migration compared to previous years. Currently, an estimated 16,000-17,000 Croatians live in Ireland, about half of the roughly 34,000 who received a PPS (Personal Public Service) number in the past 20 years, a figure akin to Croatia’s OIB, reports N1. 

The decline comes amid Ireland's housing crisis and growing anti-immigrant sentiment, with many locals concerned about preserving Irish identity. Croatia's ambassador to Ireland, Dr. Davor Vidiš, attributes the reduced migration to improved job markets across Europe. Once a top destination, Ireland has seen fewer EU migrants overall, including a significant drop in Polish residents, from 400,000 to 100,000.

Croatian migration peaked in 2016 when over 5,300 citizens moved to Ireland, accounting for nearly 5% of all foreign arrivals. However, in the first nine months of 2024, Croatians ranked 36th among incoming foreign nationals, signaling a shift in migration patterns.

High housing costs, such as €500,000 for a 60-square-meter home, have further discouraged migration to Ireland. Experts suggest improved conditions in Croatia and other EU countries are keeping workers closer to home.

The European Commission has given a positive assessment of Croatia’s National Medium-Term Fiscal-Structural Plan (2025-2028) and its draft budget for 2025. Announced during the Commission’s final session in Strasbourg, the evaluation highlights Croatia’s compliance with the EU’s new fiscal framework.

Croatia was one of eight eurozone countries praised for meeting fiscal recommendations, with plans ensuring public debt remains below 60% of GDP. The Commission acknowledged Croatia’s prudent fiscal direction, noting a budget deficit under 3% of GDP and steady debt reduction goals.

The National Plan focuses on fiscal adjustments, reform policies, and investments. Member states must report annually on its implementation, aiming to ensure long-term economic stability.

Croatian hotels had a strong 2024, with top-quality four- and five-star establishments enjoying peak summer occupancy of up to 95%, according to Veljko Ostojić, president of the Croatian Hotel Association (UPUHH). Speaking at the 26th Hotel Congress, Ostojić emphasized that investments in quality were key to success.

The two-day congress, bringing together 250 tourism professionals, highlights this year’s achievements and plans for 2025, with a focus on boosting investments, extending the tourist season, and addressing labor challenges.

Tourism Minister Tonči Glavina called 2024 a record-breaking year, despite global challenges. He noted ongoing investments, including €350 million in grants and €170 million in loans, to strengthen Croatia’s position as a year-round destination.

The congress also honored top hotel managers and featured discussions on future trends, ensuring Croatian tourism remains competitive in the years to come.