Economic Development, Governance and Enterprise Growth Project Workforce Assessment Report for Selected Sectors

The report focuses on the fruit and vegetable, tourism, wood and furniture, textiles and apparel, and ICT sectors. The assessment aimed to identify key challenges and opportunities in each sector, with a focus on the workforce. The fruit and vegetable sector in the Western Balkans is characterized by a high level of fragmentation, with many small-scale farmers operating in the market. The sector faces challenges related to soil degradation, limited access to finance, and inadequate market infrastructure. A survey of companies in the sector found that 70% of respondents reported difficulties in recruiting skilled labor, while 60% cited inadequate training programs as a major challenge. In the tourism sector, the Western Balkans region has significant potential for growth, with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. However, the sector faces challenges related to infrastructure development, marketing, and human resources. A survey of companies in the sector found that 80% of respondents reported difficulties in recruiting skilled labor, while 70% cited inadequate training programs as a major challenge. The wood and furniture sector in the Western Balkans is characterized by a high level of dependence on imported raw materials. The sector faces challenges related to energy efficiency, waste management, and human resources. A survey of companies in the sector found that 60% of respondents reported difficulties in recruiting skilled labor, while 50% cited inadequate training programs as a major challenge. The textiles and apparel sector in the Western Balkans is characterized by a high level of competition from low-cost producers in other regions. The sector faces challenges related to energy efficiency, waste management, and human resources. A survey of companies in the sector found that 70% of respondents reported difficulties in recruiting skilled labor, while 60% cited inadequate training programs as a major challenge. The ICT sector in the Western Balkans is characterized by a high level of growth potential, with a growing demand for digital services. However, the sector faces challenges related to human resources, infrastructure development, and innovation. A survey of companies in the sector found that 80% of respondents reported difficulties in recruiting skilled labor, while 70% cited inadequate training programs as a major challenge. Overall, the workforce assessment report highlights the need for targeted interventions to address the challenges facing each sector. Recommendations include the development of training programs, the improvement of infrastructure, and the promotion of innovation and entrepreneurship.