Caspian Energy (CE): Minister Han, what are the key priorities of Slovenia’s economic policy for the coming years, and how do you plan to enhance the country’s competitiveness on the global stage?

Matjaž Han, Minister of the Economy, Tourism and Sport of the Republic of Slovenia: Our economic policy is focused on strengthening long-term resilience, productivity, and sustainable growth. In the coming years, our priorities are centered directly on strengthening business performance, innovation capacity, and international market presence.  

First, we are focused on improving productivity and value creation in companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, which form the backbone of the Slovenian economy. This includes targeted financial incentives for technological modernization, support for digital transformation and green transition, and measures to help firms scale their operations and move into higher value-added activities.

Second, innovation and commercialization are also necessary. We are increasing support for research collaboration between companies and knowledge institutions, cofinancing development projects, and helping businesses bring new products and technologies to market faster. The goal is not just invention, but successful global commercialization – an area where we are actively enhancing our focus.

Third, internationalisation is key to competitiveness. Through export promotion programmes, trade missions, and strategic market entry support - coordinated through SPIRIT Slovenia - we help companies expand abroad, diversify export markets, and integrate more deeply into global value chains with: 

• Export support: Promoting the competitiveness and resilience of Slovenian exporters and diversifying exports to new markets.
• Attracting foreign investment: Attracting, supporting, and retaining domestic and foreign investors in Slovenia.
• Supporting Slovenian companies in investing abroad: Encouraging Slovenian companies to expand internationally through group and individual trade fair participation, business clubs abroad, and similar initiatives.
• Enhancing the international visibility of the Slovenian economy: Increasing recognition of Slovenia as a business-friendly destination, including through promotional campaigns showcasing the Slovenian economy as Green. Creative. Smart.
• Improving the functioning of the internationalization support ecosystem: Strengthening cooperation among various institutions and enhancing the efficiency of support mechanisms.

Fourth, we are strengthening the overall business environment. This includes reducing administrative barriers, simplifying procedures for investment and business expansion, and trying to ensure predictable conditions for domestic and international investors.

Our ministry’s approach to competitiveness is practical and business-focused: helping companies innovate, grow, export, and operate more efficiently in international markets.