FBiH Government pledges intervention as concerns mount over Nova Zeljezara Zenica’s future

A critical bankruptcy hearing is scheduled for 25 June at the Municipal Court in Zenica, which could see the firm liquidated. However, the Prime Minister confirmed that the FBiH Government has resolved to prevent this outcome at all costs. The proposed strategy involves the government regaining control of Zeljezara to secure employment and stabilise the company’s future.

"We are determined to avoid bankruptcy and protect our workforce," Niksic remarked. "This necessitates taking over the site to establish a proper way forward."

The lack of a coherent plan from the current owners is further evidenced by substantial outstanding debts to public utilities. As of mid-month, the company owed 40 million Bosnian marks (approx. € 20.45 million) to Elektroprivreda BiH and 20 million marks (approx. € 10.23 million) to Energoinvest, alongside further arrears with the FBiH Railways. In light of this, Niksic announced intentions to compensate the current owners for their initial investment as part of a negotiated exit.

The proposed government intervention has received backing from the trade union, with officials noting that the facility retains significant potential, supported by a highly skilled workforce that the state is keen to retain within the country.

During the forum, Zukan Helez, Deputy President of the SDP BiH and Minister of Defence, also highlighted the party's recent successes, particularly the modernisation and growth of the national defence industry. Addressing recent political rhetoric regarding a 'third entity' discussed at a gathering in Zagreb, Helez dismissed the participants as irrelevant individuals attempting to cause unnecessary alarm.