Zurich, 31 October 2024
The Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, began his official stay in Switzerland by participating in the “Business Agility Day” conference. As the main speaker at this conference, he presented to the representatives of about 150 international companies the progress of the country and the potential for foreign investments. He emphasized our country’s dedication and commitment to digital transformation and innovation, thus opening the way for new partnerships and development.
“It is an honor to be here today among some of the most transformative minds in business and technology. We share a common goal with each other: building sustainable, adaptable and innovative organizations, prepared for the rapid changes that are defining the modern world. I am here to invite you to direct your gaze towards the southeast (of the continent), in the direction of a country ready to support and increase your ambitions – the Republic of Kosovo”, said Prime Minister Kurti at the beginning of his address his.
He singled out Kosovo’s geographical position, fiscal and tax policies, customs facilities for the import of equipment and raw materials for production, digital infrastructure, young and educated population, institutional stability, economic progress, democratic progress and the rule of law as the main characteristics and the advantages of our country for foreign investments.
“Kosovo is not just another investment destination: it is the place where your business can become part of a bigger mission. It is an opportunity to contribute to a growing economy, to harness the potential of a young and dynamic workforce, to benefit and be part of a sustainable and progressive society,” he further said.
In front of those present, the prime minister expressed the readiness of the institutions to provide the infrastructure, workforce and necessary government support to realize their ambitious projects.
“In Kosovo you will find not only a market, but a partner – a partner that values innovation, stability and cooperation” said Prime Minister Kurti at the end of his speech.
Prime Minister Kurti’s complete speech:
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and visionary leaders,
It is an honor to stand here today among some of the most transformative minds in business and technology. As we gather here today in Zurich for “Business Agility Day”, we share a common goal: building resilient, adaptable, and innovative organizations prepared for the rapid changes that define our modern world. I am here to extend an invitation to you, an invitation to look south/eastward, towards a country poised to support and enhance your agile ambitions — the Republic of Kosova.
Located at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, Kosova offers an unparalleled strategic position for those seeking not just nearshoring but what I call “friendly-shoring.” In a world where geopolitical tensions and supply chain challenges have made traditional offshoring risky, Kosova stands as a reliable partner. Our people are deeply aligned with Western values, committed to institutional stability, economic growth, and sustainable development.
My country is proud to be a beacon of stability in the Western Balkans. For the first time in our post-war history, our government will complete a full term, a testament to the growing institutional and political stability that we have achieved. This stability creates the predictability and security investors crave, and our business-friendly policies reduce bureaucracy, streamline processes, and welcome foreign direct investment.
Over the past three years, our economy has demonstrated resilience, with an average GDP growth of 6.2% — the highest in our region. In just 5 years we’ve increased our GDP for 50%.
We are committed to infrastructure development, with €7 billion earmarked for transformative projects in transportation, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability. These initiatives are not merely numbers on a chart but signify our dedication to building a sustainable future where businesses can thrive.
Dear friends,
Beyond stability and strategic location, Kosova offers one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe at just 10%, along with exemptions on machinery and raw materials imports for manufacturing. And we don’t tax dividends. For businesses in tech, we provide zero custom duties on exports, a robust digital infrastructure, and a young, educated, and multilingual workforce. Average age of population in Kosova is 34 years, youth are fluent in English and German, and many speak languages of our region mainly Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian. And they are all proficient in the latest digital tools. Kosova therefore is the ideal place to establish operations that require both agility and talent.
And if you’re still on the fence, let me add — in Kosova, we work hard, but we also know how to unwind. After a day’s work, you’ll find us at the cafés, discussing strategy and ideas, and sipping on the best macchiato in the Balkans. So, consider it a two-for-one: business growth and great coffee.
My country is rapidly emerging as a competitive destination for industries like IT services, digital marketing, software development, and manufacturing. And in particularly Business Process Outsourcing sector is expanding, providing cost-effective and high-quality services that meet European standards. We have a rich manufacturing history, especially in sectors like furniture and food processing, where businesses can benefit from established expertise and scalable production capacities. Furthermore, our agricultural sectors present untapped opportunities for sustainable and high-quality production.
Kosova’s tech sector is thriving, with over 2,000 ICT companies, 85% of which export services primarily to the United States and the European Union. Our exports have grown by 296% in three years, and Kosovo ranks 11th in Emerging Europe for IT competitiveness and number 1 in the Western Balkans, according to the 2023 Future of IT Report. Digital infrastructure is another strength: all Kosovan villages now have broadband Internet, 5G is being rolled out nationwide, and over 200 e-government services are available through the eKosova portal.
Additionally, we are launching a National eID system to enhance digital transactions and streamline citizen and business interactions with government.
Today’s event celebrates agility — the ability to adapt, respond, and innovate and Kosova embodies these principles at the national level. We are not just building for today but designing a framework that can adapt to the needs of tomorrow’s businesses. We are a nation willing to listen, respond, and collaborate, ensuring that your investment journey in Kosova is as seamless and rewarding as possible. Our government has pioneered a platform for public-private dialogue, enabling direct collaboration to address the specific needs of businesses operating in our country.
As we look to the future, I am here to invite you to join us in this journey. Kosova is not just another investment destination; it is a place where your business can be part of a larger mission. It is an opportunity to contribute to a growing economy, to harness the potential of a young and dynamic workforce, to profit and to be part of a resilient, forward-looking society. As the saying goes, “Every great journey starts with a first step”, and today, I invite all of you to take that step with us.
To the leaders gathered here, I assure you that Kosova is ready.
We are ready to provide the infrastructure, the workforce, and the governmental support needed to bring your ambitious projects to life. In Kosova, you will find not just a market but a partner — a partner that values innovation, resilience, and collaboration.
Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to the prosperous partnerships that will emerge from today’s gathering. Let’s make Kosova and your businesses cooperate ever better, ever more in years to come and turn our country into the next hub of agility and innovation in Europe.
Thank you very much.
Last modified: November 1, 2024