Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications Rasim Ljajić, attended the opening ceremony of the production facility of the Norwegian company “RAPP Zastava” in the small town Gruža in Šumadija. On that occasion, he stated that this investment is significant not only for Gruža but for the advancement of the entire national economy.

“Through steps like these, Serbia is on the way to position itself as a major investment destination” said Ljajić adding that the reforms that Serbia is implementing are the best signal to attract foreign investors and the main reason for their increased interest in investing in Serbia.

Opening the factory in Gruža cost about 6.8 million euros. The factory that manufactures nautical gear and equipment for oil platforms, 95 percent of production is exported and the factory has 140 employees. 50 more job openings were announced given that the company’s plan is to increase production from 5 million this year to 11 million next year.

The factory is owned by the Norwegian company “RAPP Marine Group”, which in 2006 bought the company “Zastava machines”, part of the former Zastava holding, and is considered one of the most successful privatizations in Kragujevac.

The Norwegian Ambassador Nils Ragnar Kamsvag said at the opening ceremony that Norway is one of the biggest investors in Serbia, which, in this year alone, will invest 47 million euros.