The survey was conducted by the Zagreb branch of the Austrian Foreign Trade Office among 400 Austrian companies doing business in Croatia. The Office presented the results on Thursday.
With about three billion euros, Austria is the biggest foreign investor in Croatia, with some 450 Austrian companies currently operating.
Asked to compare their business in Croatia in 2005 and 2004, 25 per cent said it was much better, 56 per cent that it was better and 17 per cent that it was the same.
Regarding expectations for this year, 14 per cent said they expected much better development, 54 per cent said better and 32 per cent the same development.
Speaking of the advantages of doing business in Croatia, 53 per cent cited the geographic position, 53 per cent the commitment of associates, 50 per cent the European Union accession candidate status, 42 per cent the degree of economic development, 36 per cent the qualifications of associates, and 33 per cent the growth dynamic.
Regarding the biggest obstacles, as many as 78 per cent mentioned red tape and administration, 56 per cent the judiciary, 53 per cent laws and regulations, 42 per cent corruption, 39 per cent illegal labour, 31 per cent procurement and tenders, and 22 per cent mentioned taxes.
Compared to a similar survey conducted in 2004, obstacles increased in red tape, illegal labour, and procurement and tenders.
The survey showed the situation improved in the judiciary, laws and regulations, and regarding corruption.