State Secretary at the Ministry of Economy: Strategic commodity reserves in good shape

Zagreb - Croatia’s strategic commodity reserves are in good condition and are constantly being replenished, State Secretary at the Ministry of Economy Vedran Špehar said while presenting to Parliament the 2023 report on the reserves on Tuesday.

However, opposition MPs have called for greater transparency in their management.

“The reserves are in quite good shape; their purpose is to be available for emergencies,” Špehar said in response to questions from MPs regarding food stockpiles. Responding to Darko Sobota (HDZ) on the origins of wheat, edible oil, corn, meat, and similar products, Špehar confirmed that the reserves consist of Croatian-produced goods.

Responding to a question from Anamarija Blažević (HDZ) regarding multipurpose tank trucks, Špehar Croatia currently has 115, which is a solid number.

Future priorities include expanding reserves to include medicines, vaccines, and medical supplies, despite financial and organisational challenges.

As of 31 December 2023, Croatia's commodity reserves were valued at nearly €84 million, a 2.3% decrease compared to 2022.

Author: Hina