By: Vida Kocjan
The first 100 days of the new government have brought a significant shift in its approach to the economy.
The business community has welcomed the establishment of the Strategic Economic Council, the drafting and adoption of the Intervention Act for Slovenia’s Development (which leaders of left-wing parties and trade unions are attempting to block through a referendum), measures to mitigate high energy costs, the extension of the short-time work scheme, and the announcement of faster procedures for obtaining building permits.
Business representatives argue that these are concrete steps toward reducing burdens on companies and citizens, as well as fostering the open dialogue that the economy has long been lacking. They see this as evidence that the importance of businesses for economic development, high-quality employment, and the sustainability of public services is finally being recognised. The key challenge now, they contend, is to follow these encouraging first steps with systematic improvements to the business environment.
This beginning coincides with favourable macroeconomic conditions in 2026. The Institute of Macroeconomic Analysis and Development of the Republic of Slovenia (UMAR), in its autumn forecast, expects economic growth of 3.8 percent, substantially higher than last year and above the spring forecast of 2 percent. Growth is broadly based and supported by concrete economic indicators, increased optimism, and high employment levels. The economy is also said to be demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
This assessment is reportedly reinforced by the credit rating agency Fitch Ratings, which has maintained Slovenia’s A+ rating with a stable outlook and revised its 2026 growth forecast upward to 3.7 percent. Fitch highlights stronger economic growth, declining public debt, and solid public finances. According to the article, this rating strengthens confidence and confirms that Slovenia has finally established solid foundations this year.
The remainder of 2026 therefore presents a significant opportunity. With strong economic growth and the first policy shifts implemented by the government, the country can begin systematically strengthening its competitiveness. Through continued dialogue and further measures, Slovenia is portrayed as being on a path where current momentum could become a lasting advantage for businesses, employees, and the state itself. And this is a reason for measured and well-founded optimism.