Economic Activities in Croatia: Primary, Secondary, Tertiary, and Quaternary

Croatia, with a population of about 3,866,300 (World Bank, 2024), is ranked among the smaller European nations by population. Located in Southeast Europe, it covers 88,070 square kilometers, ranking 108th globally, just below Jordan.

As of 2024, Croatia’s economy is stable, with a GDP of about $92.5 billion (World Bank, 2024). In terms of GDP per capita, Croatia reached about $23,931 in 2024 (World Bank, 2024). Croatia adopted the euro in 2023.

Despite facing challenges, Croatia’s economy shows potential for growth and development in the coming years.

What are the economic activities of Croatia?

• Primary activities: 3.7% of GDP.
• Secondary activities: 26.2% of GDP.
• Tertiary activities: 70.1% of GDP.

Primary Sector of Croatia

With 26.38% of the land dedicated to agriculture, the country produces a variety of crops and animal products. The main agricultural products include maize, wheat, sugar beets, milk, barley, soybeans, sunflower seeds, grapes, and pork.

Despite contributing 3.7% to the GDP, agriculture plays a crucial role in the economy by providing employment and sustaining rural communities. The top ten agricultural products, based on tonnage, showcase the importance and richness of Croatia’s agricultural sector.

The country’s diverse geology provides a range of natural resources, including oil, coal, bauxite, iron ore, calcium, gypsum, asphalt, silica, mica, clays, salt, and hydropower. These resources play a crucial role in driving the economy through industries like energy, mining, and manufacturing.Croatia’s oil production of around 11,341 barrels per day contributes to its position as the 55th largest oil producer globally. With 71 million barrels in reserves, the country holds 0.1% of the world’s oil reserves.Croatia’s gas production of 1.7 billion m³ in 2020 ranks 60th globally, contributing significantly to the country’s economic activity.

Secondary Sector of Croatia

What is the secondary sector or what are secondary activities?In Croatia, industrial products include chemicals, plastics, machine tools, electronics, metals, paper, wood products, textiles, shipbuilding, petroleum, food, and beverages.Manufactures play a crucial role in Croatia’s total exports, accounting for 63.88% in 2023. They drive economic growth, create jobs, and contribute significantly to the country’s trade balance and overall prosperity.

Tertiary sector of Croatia

What is the tertiary sector or what are tertiary activities?The tertiary sector in Croatia encompasses various services where individuals contribute knowledge and time to enhance productivity and meet needs. Key activities include restaurants, healthcare and medical care, education and training, banking and finance, communication and information exchange, tourism and hospitality, and transportation and logistics. These services play a crucial role in the country’s economy by providing intangible goods such as expertise, advice, and attention to both consumers and businesses.Specifically, Croatia’s economy heavily relies on tourism. As of 2024, the country recorded about 21.3 million tourist arrivals (Croatian National Tourist Board, 2024), several times its resident population, making it a critical sector. Dubrovnik and Split, boasting stunning architecture and coastal allure, are among the most popular destinations, attracting visitors from around the globe.Another example of tertiary economic activity is the mobile cellular sector, with approximately 4.48 million subscriptions, supporting technological growth by enhancing communication, fostering innovation, and driving digital services.

Military Activities and Economic Sectors of Croatia

In the primary sector, resources are extracted for military use, like metals for weapons. The secondary sector focuses on manufacturing military equipment, ensuring soldiers have the tools they need. The tertiary sector provides services, such as training and logistics. Research and development fall under the quaternary sector, while high-level decision-making is part of the quinary sector.

As of 2024, Croatia’s annual military expenditure is about $1,731 million, roughly 1.81% of GDP (SIPRI, 2024). The active military force consists of about 14,000 personnel. These figures show how the military is linked to various economic activities in the country.

Biggest company in Croatia

Which is the biggest company in Croatia? The largest is INA-Industrija Nafte d.d., with a market capitalization of about 5.9 billion USD as of 2026 (INA d.d.). It operates in the energy industry, specifically in the primary sector. INA was founded in 1964 and plays a crucial role in Croatia’s economy.

International Trade of Croatia

Import Activities of Croatia

Import activities in Croatia are crucial. As of 2024, merchandise imports totaled about $45.5 billion, around 49% of GDP (OEC, 2024). This highlights the significant role imports play in the country’s economy.Croatia’s key import activities include natural gas, refined petroleum, electricity, garments, and cars. Major import partners are Italy (14%), Germany (12%), Slovenia (11%), Hungary (7%), and the US (7%).

Exports Activities of Croatia

As of 2024, Croatia’s merchandise exports reached about $26 billion, around 28% of GDP (OEC, 2024). Including services such as tourism, total exports of goods and services are about half of GDP, so export activities play a crucial role in driving the country’s economy.Croatia’s export activities are diverse, with key partners like Italy, Slovenia, Germany, Hungary, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The country exports refined petroleum, electricity, natural gas, garments, and wood.

Croatia economy challenges in 2024

Croatia, a country of about 3.87 million people, continues to face structural challenges. Its tourism-dependent economy remains exposed to seasonality, while rising public debt and ongoing emigration weigh on long-term growth. Since adopting the euro in 2023, Croatia has benefited from greater monetary stability, and its liquefied natural gas import terminal on Krk supports energy diversification.

Sources

• World Bank: Croatia
• IMF: Croatia
• CIA World Factbook: Croatia
• UN Comtrade Plus: Trade Flow
• SIPRI Military Expenditure Database

Last updated: June 20, 2026