Where Industry Meets Opportunity: Žepče Reaffirms Its BFC SEE Standards

Over the years, Žepče has built a strong reputation as a municipality with a dynamic entrepreneurial culture and export-oriented economy. By the end of 2024, more than 1,570 business entities were operating in the municipality, including over 600 companies and nearly 600 registered crafts. The local economy is supported by a long tradition in metal processing, wood processing, textile manufacturing, and agriculture, while emerging opportunities continue to develop in the IT and service sectors.

A distinguishing feature of Žepče is its proactive approach to supporting investors and entrepreneurs. Through the Investor Center and the Development Agency of Žepče, businesses benefit from a highly efficient one-stop-shop system capable of responding to investor requests within 72 hours. The municipality has consistently demonstrated its commitment to reducing administrative barriers and creating favorable conditions for business growth, earning a reputation as one of the most investor-oriented local governments in the region.

The municipality’s strong export performance further highlights the resilience and competitiveness of its economy. In 2024, exports reached more than BAM 157 million, representing a growth of over 7% compared to the previous year. The wood processing sector remains the leading export industry, followed by metal processing and textiles, reflecting the municipality’s industrial strengths and long-standing manufacturing tradition.

Žepče has also recognized the strategic importance of its diaspora community as a driver of future development. Through initiatives such as E-Dijaspora and Diaspora for Development (D4D), the municipality actively connects with citizens living abroad, encouraging knowledge transfer, investment, and stronger economic ties. These efforts are supported by the Development Agency of Žepče, which facilitates communication, investment opportunities, and access to various support programmes.

These results are also confirmed by the mayor's vision: Žepče is an enterprising community of educated, innovative and environmentally aware citizens, which optimally combines tradition and modern opportunities, respecting the principles of sustainable development and improving the quality of life, and builds the foundations for a responsible partnership in the development of central BiH, together with the diaspora.

The successful renewal of the BFC SEE Certificate for the third time confirms that Žepče continues to build on its strengths: a strategic location, strong entrepreneurial spirit, export-oriented industries, efficient administration, and a clear commitment to supporting investors and local businesses. Through continuous improvements and close cooperation with the private sector, Žepče remains one of the leading examples of a business-friendly municipality in the region.