ECONOMY MINISTER OPENS FURNITURE FAIR "AMBIENTA"

( Editorial: --> 8282 ) ZAGREB, Oct 14 (Hina) - Croatian Economy Minister Nenad Porges on Wednesday opened the international fair of furniture, interior decorating and accompanying industry, "Ambienta", taking place in Zagreb between October 14 and 18. The priority of the Croatian government is macroeconomic stability which is but one condition for expedite progress, Porges said in his opening address. We have to complete the restructuring and privatisation processes to be ready for a successful presentation on foreign markets, he added. The Economy Minister announced next year's budget would be more restricted, and warned that the growth rates of Croatian economy would not move as expected due to the economic and financial movements in the world. "The Croatian market is too small to ensure market future for all those subjects present on it. Opening the domestic market to the world will entail some market casualties", said Porges. The timber industry in Croatia accounts for 7.8 percent of the total domestic export, he said, but pointed out it was plagued with problems which in turn were a burden to the entire economy. The first "Ambienta" exhibition was held in 1988 and has since become an important business event in the timber industry. This year it will feature more than 460 exhibitors, including 206 from abroad, and numerous expert conferences. (hina) ha 141240 MET oct 98