Bosnian exporters face challenges that could lead to serious collapse.
Snježana Köpruner, Vice President of the Association of Employers in the Federation of BiH (UPFBiH) warned the difficult situation in which BH. Exporters, emphasizing that the current crisis may be even worse than the 2008. and 2009. years.
Köpruner pointed out the conference for journalists that the consequences of this crisis are especially true in the western market.
“Germany, our main export partner, especially in the metal industry, is currently facing a large drop. These changes negatively affect our export and a large extent destabilizes the market, “she said.
This situation becomes even more critical when the consequences of increasing the minimum salary are taken into account.
“The government had a good intention when it introduced an increase in the minimum wage, but the effect was similar to throwing a bomb between all of us. Although it is important to discuss the topics that have been neglected in recent years, the effects of this increase were difficult, especially for companies that are not more profitable sectors such as skin and footwear, “Köpruner added.
Introduction of fees on CO2
One of the key problems facing exporters in the coming period is the mechanism of cross-border adjustment of carbon prices (CBAM).
“The introduction of the CO2 fee will further reduce the competitiveness of our exporters, because we currently have no laws and bylaws related to renewable energy sources,” she explained.
Köpruner pointed out the fact that they were bh. Exporters under additional pressure due to limitations related to driver movement.
“Our drivers cannot spend more than 90 days in the EU, which further complicates transport and business. If this question is not resolved, we will be forced to search for transport companies from the EU, which will create additional costs and make it difficult for us to access the markets, “it pointed out.
Exporters are also concerned about the lack of a clear strategy and power support in this difficult period.
Free up company from excessive levies
“What we need is most needed now are the reforms that will release our company from excessive levies. Over the past ten years, employers sought changes in fiscal and paraphic levies, but unfortunately, without significant shifts, “Köpruner said.
Köpruner completed his exposure to emergency measures and dialogue between the authorities and the business community.
“This is an opportunity for the authorities to engage and start resolving the problems we face. In order to survive and remain competitive in the international market, it is necessary to focus urgently on reforms that will enable the sustainability of our sector, “she concluded.
This situation requires only the attention of the media, but also a quick reaction of the authorities to ensure the future of BH. Exporter and entire economy. If the current challenges are not resolved, BH. Economy could experience severe consequences that will reflect on all citizens, writes Akta.
