Matjaž Han, Slovenia’s Minister of Economy, Tourism, and Sport, aims to make Slovenia a gateway for Chinese companies entering Europe, inviting investments particularly in automotive, electricity, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals sectors [para. 1]. Central Europe’s strategic location and a highly educated population bolster this prospect [para. 1]. However, the previously growing Sino-Slovenian bilateral trade experienced a slowdown post-2022 due to global challenges like COVID-19, geopolitical tensions, and wars [para. 2]. Consequently, Slovenia encourages its companies to seek business connections in China, as evidenced by 35 companies participating in the China International Import Expo [para. 2]. Slovenia, known for its central European location and historical ties with China since 1992, is dedicated to enhancing economic ties and participating in initiatives like the Belt and Road [para. 3].
Matjaž Han has notable political experience, having been appointed Minister of Economy after serving as chairman of the Social Democrats and chairing the Economic Affairs Committee in Slovenia [para. 4]. Mutual investments highlight the fruitful cooperation between China and Slovenia, such as Hisense’s acquisition of Gorenje and Krka’s collaboration with Ningbo Menovo Pharmaceutical Group in China [para. 5]. Emphasizing sustainability, Slovenia is pivoting towards a green transition, providing industrial and technological upgrade opportunities that could attract Chinese investments [para. 6].
The automotive industry is a key pillar of Slovenia’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP and exports while employing about 40,000 people [para. 7]. The industry is at a crucial juncture globally, transitioning towards greener technologies, offering collaborative opportunities [para. 7]. In logistics, the Port of Koper, strategically located at the shortest maritime route from China to Central and Eastern Europe, is a significant hub [para. 8]. China COSCO Shipping Corporation’s established routes to Koper Port mark notable cooperation, despite current limitations of the single-track railway line connecting it to the domestic rail hub Divača, which the Slovenian government plans to expand by 2026 to meet freight demands [para. 9]. In aviation, with Adria Airways having shut down, Slovenia is in pursuit of investors to establish a new national airline [para. 10].
In anticipation of China’s 2024 unilateral visa exemption for Slovenians, Slovenia aims to boost tourism, capitalizing on its natural beauty, culture, and safety [para. 11]. Balancing China-EU trade, Han emphasizes that a consensus on trade would bolster EU competitiveness against China [para. 12]. Recently, the European Commission imposed a five-year anti-subsidy tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles, which Slovenia opposed, advocating for cooperation over tariffs [para. 13]. Slovenian opposition stems from a belief that tariffs do not address core issues, and that cooperation is key [para. 14].
The European automobile industry is under pressure, with China’s auto production far outpacing Europe’s, highlighting an urgent need for technological cooperation [para. 15]. Han acknowledges the trade imbalance between China and Slovenia, and more broadly with the EU, as a critical concern, advocating for measures to foster balanced trade [para. 16]. In 2023, bilateral trade reached $6.7 billion, with China exporting significantly more to Slovenia than importing, resulting in a trade deficit [para. 16]. Despite a slight decline in trade volume from 2023, there has been a modest growth in Slovenian exports to China in 2024, indicating potential areas for trade enhancement [para. 17].
AI generated, for reference only
