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Croatia to increase defence spending to 3% of GDP by 2030

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on April 8, 2025

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· Last updated: April 8, 2025

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Croatia to Raise Defence Budget to 3% of GDP by 2030

SARAJEVO (Reuters) - Croatia plans to boost defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and to 3% by 2030, it said on Tuesday, the latest European member of NATO to pledge higher military spending amid pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump.

The Balkan nation currently spends 2% of its economic output on defence.

"Croatia is intensively working on the development of its defence industry and further cooperation with its allies," Defence Minister Ivan Anusic was quoted as saying by his ministry at the opening of the Adriatic Sea Defence & Aerospace Exhibition and Conference in the capital Zagreb.

Anusic said that Croatia's armed forces were negotiating with Germany to buy 50 Leopard tanks that should arrive in 2028, part of a push across Europe to boost military capabilities amid concerns Washington is stepping back from defending the region.

(Reporting by Daria Sito-Sucic. Editing by Alison Williams and Mark Potter)

Key Takeaways

  • Croatia will increase defence spending to 3% of GDP by 2030.
  • Current spending is 2% of GDP, with a target of 2.5% by 2027.
  • The move aligns with NATO's increased military spending goals.
  • Croatia is negotiating with Germany to purchase 50 Leopard tanks.
  • The initiative is part of broader European military enhancements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main topic?
The article discusses Croatia's plan to increase its defence spending to 3% of GDP by 2030 in alignment with NATO goals.
Why is Croatia increasing its defence budget?
Croatia aims to enhance its military capabilities amid NATO's call for increased spending and concerns over regional security.
What military equipment is Croatia acquiring?
Croatia is negotiating with Germany to purchase 50 Leopard tanks as part of its military enhancement strategy.

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