2013. What is special about this date? On this day Croatia will be the 28th country to enter the EU, symbolising a break with the Balkans and former Yugoslavia and highlighting a strong connection with the European community. So what does this mean for the country? And what does it mean for business? This move will mark an important shift in Croatia and how we view the country. Access to the EU will open up markets and economies to Croatia, will focus attention on this location, and will have a very positive impact on tourism. Croatia, a nation of 4.4 million people, will be the second ex-Yugoslav country after Slovenia to join the EU. It has been in talks regarding EU accession since 2005, making it a long awaited historical date, over 7 years in the making. What will this actually mean for Croatia and what can you gain from awareness of this promising spot? Make sure you are not left lagging behind when it comes to this budding location. Read on to find out about the hidden gem that is all but uncovered.
Leading Lights
Considering Investing Abroad? Then read on…
The Polish economy is one of the most attractive economies for foreign investors, and the Świętokrzyskie region, in particular, with its rich industrial history and progressive business attitude makes it a prime location for Foreign Direct Investment. The region, situated in south-eastern Poland covers 3.4% of the country and comprises prime brown and green field opportunities for business development. Its excellent geographical location means it is located at the intersection of the main north/south and east/west communication routes and oscillates 120-180 km from the nearest major cities.
Tourism investments in the middle of Sweden
Tourism is the fastest growing industry in Sweden and it is the mountain destinations that have experienced the largest growth. During the year of 2010 €633 million was invested in the tourism industry in Sweden. The financing was mainly from private investors (68 %) and about one third was from the public sector. The largest investments were done in hotel properties and in ski resorts.
Saxony in its Stride
Saxony has many pictures that tell many tales, creating lots of history: The digital heart of the semiconductor industry beats in Dresden. Silicon Saxony is a network of 280 commercial enterprises and research institutions, is Europe’s leading and the fifth largest microelectronics cluster in the world. Geared towards the future, researchers and young entrepreneurs between Leipzig and Dresden are working hand in hand in the biotechnology and environmental technology sectors.
Relocating to Frankfurt – BS relocation services can assist
Frankfurt is Germany’s most cosmopolitan city, with foreigners making up more than one-quarter of the population. It is an international city where newcomers settle down quickly and feel at home: It is considered to be multicultural because it is home to people from around 180 different nationalities. It’s also Germany’s number one city for international professionals – with around 170 foreign banks, 3000 foreign companies and 92 foreign consulates. As headquarters of the European Central Bank and the home of the German Stock Exchange, Frankfurt is a leading centre of finance and commerce in Europe and in the world.
Lappeenranta – Wide open spaces, wide open potential
When you think of Europe’s emerging markets the natural reaction is to look east. However, one of the continent’s cities best placed to capitalise on new successes is actually North; way north.
Located in the heart of South-East Finland, Lappeenranta is half way between the Finnish capital Helsinki and Russia’s St Petersburg. The train journey is roughly two hours from Lappeenranta west to Helsinki and the same or less east to St Petersburg.
Imatra Region – Russia in your Reach
The Imatra region is located in South-East Finland, right on the Russian-Finnish border. Only in 230 km from St. Petersburg and the same distance from Helsinki puts it in an excellent position for business. Good and fast-developing means of communication between Europe and Russia become a reality in Imatra. At the flexible and efficient international border crossing point, the Imatra-Svetogorsk road and railway cross the border at the same place. Imatra’s location right on the EU-Russian border and neighbouring with Svetogorsk, add colour to everyday life. Going to work, doing shopping or just visiting over the border is a part of the region’s daily life.
Interview with Mayor Jorma Rasinmäki of Seinäjoki
New European Economy-What is the economic outlook in your region in terms of investment for the coming year and how does it contrast with the previous 12 months?
Mayor Jorma Rasinmäki The biggest investments have been and continue to be in the construction, technology, logistics and trade & services industries.