Croatian region ranked in Europe’s top 10 for investment potential

(Photo: Međimurska Županija)

Croatia’s Međimurje County has once again been recognised among Europe’s most promising regions for foreign investment.

In the latest ranking by fDi Intelligence, a division of the Financial Times specialising in foreign direct investment, Međimurje secured a spot in the top 10 regions with the best investment climate, Međimurska Županija (Međimurje County) confirmed.

This recognition is based on a study of over 150 cities and regions across Europe.

(Photo: Međimurska Županija)

A Proven Success Story

This marks the fifth time in 15 years that Međimurje has received this recognition, reinforcing its reputation as a top destination for investors. County Prefect Matija Posavec expressed pride in this achievement.

“This success is the result of synergy between Međimurje County, the business sector, and our development agencies. Out of more than 150 European regions and cities, we have once again been ranked among the most developed areas,” said Posavec.

(Photo: Međimurska Županija)

Experts from fDi Intelligence assessed various factors influencing investment appeal, including workforce skills, productivity, tax policies, and the implementation of modern technologies.

“Our economy’s strong export orientation is a key pillar of regional development. Currently, Međimurje generates €10,280 in exports per capita, which is twice the Croatian average. Additionally, no city or municipality in our county has a surtax, creating an even more attractive environment for business,” Posavec added.

(Photo: Međimurska Županija)

Innovation and Sustainable Growth

Međimurje is widely recognised for its commitment to sustainable development.

“We have been ranked the fourth-best region in the world for sustainable tourism and were the first in Croatia to receive the prestigious Green Destination certification. In waste management, we have exceeded European standards, and our investments in infrastructure have further strengthened the economy,” Posavec said.

Since Croatia joined the European Union, Međimurje has maintained steady economic growth. The county boasts the lowest unemployment rate in its history and the highest proportion of working-age residents in Croatia.

Technology Innovation Centre (Photo: Međimurska Županija)

“The manufacturing industry, particularly in northern Croatia, continues to thrive. Since joining the EU, exports in Međimurje have increased by 2.7 times.

Major international companies see our region as a prime investment location. For instance, a large German corporation has entered our tourism sector, and the company Framos has expanded through projects with major international firms,” Posavec explained.

Framos (Photo: Međimurska Županija)

The county has also fostered a vibrant startup ecosystem. Međimurje’s Technology Innovation Centre currently hosts 58 companies employing 180 people, with many startups beginning their journey there. Additionally, the region’s metal-processing industry has been strengthened through the development of the Metalska Jezgra centre, Croatia’s first research and education hub established by a regional government.

Metalska Jezgra centre (Photo: Međimurska Županija)

Future Plans: Infrastructure and Sustainability

Looking ahead, Međimurje aims to invest further in infrastructure, particularly transport links, to support continued growth.

“Fast development requires strong connectivity. We will also continue to secure EU funding for major projects with the support of our regional agencies REDEA and MENEA,” said Posavec.

(Photo: Međimurska Županija)

Education will also be aligned with labour market demands, while sustainability remains a key focus. The county plans to enhance energy efficiency, green initiatives, and ensure that high-speed internet is available to all residents.

A Modern Region of Opportunity

Međimurje’s vision remains clear: to be a modern, forward-thinking region in Europe’s green heart. The latest ranking by the Financial Times not only boosts the county’s visibility on the European economic map but also cements its status as an attractive investment destination where European values and business excellence thrive.