The proposals focus on financial discipline, a ‘slim’ public sector, improved corporate integrity, disburdening the economy, better public procurement, the quality of public expenditure, effective restructuring, attracting fresh capital, the faster development of small companies, the effective investment of EU funds, better support for companies and more foreign tourists. Business representatives also proposed the introduction of certified tax registers for everyone, which would promptly record business transactions, faster garnishment procedures and the reduction of labour-related costs.
In his introductory speech, the Prime Minister Miro Cerar said that he supports the suggestions, and said the crucial task of the new Government was to create the conditions for sustainable economic growth, particularly with long-term stability. The PM also urged the business sector to contribute to Slovenia as a country of fair play in business, politics and elsewhere. He believes that all the measures that were proposed are intended to appeal to common sense in the economic sector, financial circles and society in general. The presence of many cabinet members sends a strong message that the Government will carefully study the views and advice, considering them relevant in its further work.
At one of the round tables, the minister for the economy, Jožef Petrovič, agreed with the PM and said, “We have the knowledge, brains, natural resources and geostrategic position. What we need is more optimism.”
The PM also announced that while the Government would focus on fiscal consolidation in the next few months, it would not raise taxes, but would encourage corporate re-structuring, seek to stimulate domestic and foreign investment and continue the privatisation process.