Croatia eyes livestock boom: 140,000 jobs, rural revival by 2038

Croatia stands at a pivotal moment, with a "historic chance" to transform its livestock sector by 2038. Projections suggest the nation could support half a million cattle and 1.5 million sheep, leading to the creation of approximately 140,000 new jobs in agriculture and related industries. This revitalization could also bring demographic renewal to rural areas, potentially increasing their population by 230,000 and lowering the average age of livestock farmers from 63 to 48.

However, this optimistic vision contrasts sharply with the current reality of the sector. Farmers grapple with numerous obstacles, including animal diseases, difficulties accessing state and private agricultural land, low purchasing prices for their products, and intense competition from subsidized imports. High levels of farm debt and a significant grey economy further hinder competitiveness and productivity, contributing to the sector's steady decline.

“

We have a historic chance.

Despite these challenges, a European Union study highlights a promising pathway forward. It indicates that the most successful transitions into ecological livestock farming are often made by "young, educated, non-expert" individuals. These are educated young people who may lack direct farm experience but possess a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a motivation to learn, suggesting a potential new generation of leaders for the industry.

“

The most successful new entrants into ecological livestock farming are 'young educated non-experts,' i.e., educated young people without farm experience but with an entrepreneurial spirit and motivation to learn.