Minister Sibonjic: Direct Subsidies Helped Trades and Craftsmen

The Ministry of Economy of the Zenica-Doboj Canton allocated nearly KM 850,000 this year for co-financing and subsidising small craftsmen projects, aimed at protecting small businesses and preserving traditional crafts. A total of 250 crafts and traditional trades from Zenica, Zavidovići, Visoko, Kakanj, Tešanj, Žepče, Maglaj, Doboj Jug and Usora were supported.

Minister Sibonjic emphasised that craftsmen and artisans have been particularly affected by increased fiscal burdens, and that the aim of these subsidies is to preserve jobs and support small family businesses. Funds were allocated for construction and purchase of premises for craft activities, purchase of equipment and machinery (KM 617,888), introduction of standards and quality systems, and administrative costs for activities under the Regulation on the Protection of Traditional and Old Crafts (KM 166,000). For those under 35, women and persons with disabilities, subsidy amounts were increased by 20 per cent.

Through this programme, the Ministry of Economy of the Zenica-Doboj Canton confirmed its commitment to direct support for the most vulnerable segments of the economy, helping hundreds of small craftsmen preserve their jobs and continue operating in challenging economic circumstances.