Djordje Stefanovic, Business Manager - FC Red Star, Belgrade

Balkans.com: Which countries in the Balkans offer the best business environment for investors?

FC Red Star: All countries in the region are on the path of evaluation of their market potential, because anyone wishing to join the EU has to open up their resources to the maximum. However, despite the wish of countries in the region to attract more investors, the global crisis has caused a reduction in investments. But I think this is just temporary, and that all the countries have a good outlook and Serbia will be their leader in the future.

 

Balkans.com: Which sectors of the economy do you think have the greatest potential in terms of development and sustainability? 

FC Red Star: I am convinced that agriculture and food production have great prospects. I would also mention renewable energy.

Balkans.com: What are advantages and disadvantages of the region that investors should consider? 

FC Red Star: The greatest disadvantage is still undeveloped infrastructure. As an advantage, I see a trained work force and natural resources that are not being used to their full potential.

Balkans.com: What changes would you like to see in 2010 to help your business?

FC Red Star: In sports, we are interested in changes and amendments to the sports law that has been drafted, and its passing, as well as stabilization of the home industry, because that would mean more companies interested in entering the sports market. Also, like all market players, we too hope to see new investors.

Balkans.com: Do you forecast improvements in your line of business and on what do you base those forecasts? 

FC Red Star: When it's a question of Serbia, sports could be a highly profitable sector, helping the development of young players and a reduction in excessive transfers abroad.  Of course, to acquire the quality and quantity needed for top sporting performances, new investments and fresh capital are needed, and they will be brought in through privatization, which must be transparent and fully protect existing sport assets.

Balkans.com: Our readers have already established businesses in the Balkans or are planning to do so. What advice would you give them? 

FC Red Star: They have to believe in Serbia and the potentials of the country, because its industry has proved resilient in past troubles. By maximizing the openness of its markets, Serbia has demonstrated a great appreciation for each investment dollar, and its dedication to a European market.  Serbia is still a market of opportunities where timely capital will offer more rapid returns than other markets in the region.