The main theme of the conference was Unleashing the Potential of the Western Balkans Region, which was discussed from various viewpoints with broad participation from personalities and representatives of both local and international institutions.
Minister Hajdari discussed the topic of "Catalyzing Economic Growth through Innovation" with a focus on industrial progress and innovation. She emphasized that Kosovo’s economic growth relies on creativity, technology and sustainability, shaping an economy that benefits everyone.
Minister Hajdari announced policies and measures aimed at catalyzing economic growth through innovation in the manufacturing industry. This requires a multi-faceted approach, including advancing technology, developing skills, improving infrastructure, and promoting a favorable business environment.
She emphasized that the production sector in Kosovo has the potential to make a significant contribution to the development of an innovative and digital economy, while also being the most important consumer of material inputs, and processing them into final goods.
To achieve this, she announced the Industrial Policy 2030, which was adopted last year. This policy is dedicated to unlocking the potential of industries in order to advance the goal of creating a more digital, circular, green, and competitive economy.
In announcing the main measures and actions of the Industrial Policy 2030, she stated that the policy aims to increase the percentage of local inputs in production, enhance product innovation for higher value-added production, and strengthen connections with local service providers related to the industry.
Minister Hajdari stressed the importance of establishing an Innovation Fund, and encouraging manufacturers to engage in digitization and innovation, including supporting collaborative platforms for product innovation involving businesses, academia, and the public sector.
She concluded that by implementing key measures in industrial policies, innovation, and entrepreneurship, along with measures in the common regional market action plan and the new growth plan for the Western Balkans in a coordinated manner, the Western Balkans region can unleash the full potential of its manufacturing and service industries. This will promote economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development, while also fostering economic integration with the European Union Single Market.
