PEST Analysis of Split

City review, featuring a PEST analysis, local insight, and more

Introduction

Our coverage of cities and towns around the world with a population of over 50,000 includes a thorough examination of Split, Croatia. This study features a PEST analysis, an assessment of the business climate, transportation infrastructure, and market prospects for the city. We regularly update this information to ensure that our content remains current.

Premium members have exclusive access to the complete study on Split, which includes comprehensive sections such as PEST analysis, market outlook, and other highly valuable information.

City Description

Located on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, Split is a historic city in Croatia with a rich and complex geopolitical history. The city, which is the second-largest in Croatia, is situated on a peninsula surrounded by the Dalmatian islands, making it a strategic location for trade and defense. Split has been ruled by various empires and nations throughout its history, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Austrians, and Yugoslavs. This diverse mix of cultural influences is evident in the city's architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Split's historic center, known as Diocletian's Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of Roman architecture blended with medieval and Renaissance elements. In modern times, Split is a major economic and cultural centre in Croatia, playing a crucial role in the country's tourism industry. The city's port is the largest in Croatia and is a major hub for international ferry connections to nearby islands and Italy. Split also has a growing technology sector, with the establishment of several start-ups and tech companies in recent years. Split's geopolitical significance is also evident in its strategic location as a gateway to the Balkans and Southeast Europe. The city's proximity to the Mediterranean and its strong trade connections with Italy and other European countries make it a vital economic and political player in the region. However, Split also faces challenges, such as political and ethnic tensions within Croatia and the wider Balkan region. The city has been impacted by the aftermath of the Yugoslav Wars and continues to deal with issues of economic inequality and social integration.

Local Culture

City culture drives economic growth by shaping its social environment and attracting tourists, entrepreneurs, and talent. It fosters social cohesion and boosts productivity, while cultural activities diversify the economy and support sustainable, inclusive development.

Split is a culturally rich city with a strong sense of community and tradition. The local culture is heavily influenced by its location on the Dalmatian coast, with a deep connection to the sea and a love for seafood. The city's history as a former Roman settlement is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and customs. The people of Split are known for their warm hospitality and love of music, with traditional Dalmatian folk songs and dances still being performed at local festivals. Family values and respect for elders are important aspects of the local culture, and religious traditions are also deeply ingrained in daily life.

Table of Contents

Save to Library

Add to library
Remove from library

Industries

Below is a list of industry verticals that are intrinsic to the local region:

  • Tourism
  • Shipping and maritime
  • Agriculture
  • Fishing
  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Retail
  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Hospitality and food services.

Business Environment

A city's business environment drives growth, attracting investment and supporting economic development. Key elements such as infrastructure, policies, skilled labour, and a strong customer base can boost productivity and profitability.

By promoting fair trade, streamlining processes, and ensuring legal and infrastructure support, cities foster a resilient economy and broader socioeconomic growth.

The city of Split, located along the beautiful Adriatic coast in Croatia, has seen significant economic growth in recent years. As a result, the business environment in Split has become increasingly competitive, with a diverse range of industries and a thriving entrepreneurial spirit. One of the key factors contributing to the positive business environment in Split is its strategic location. With its close proximity to major European markets, Split serves as an important transportation and trade hub, attracting both domestic and international businesses. The city also has a well-developed infrastructure, including a modern port, airport, and road network, making it an attractive destination for investors. In addition to its geographic advantages, Split also benefits from a skilled and educated workforce. The city is home to several universities and vocational schools, providing a steady stream of qualified professionals for businesses to tap into. This highly educated workforce is a valuable asset for businesses looking to innovate and grow. What's more, the Croatian government has implemented several initiatives to support and promote entrepreneurship in Split. These include tax incentives, funding programs, and business development services, making it easier for aspiring entrepreneurs to establish and grow their businesses in the city. However, like any other city, Split also faces its fair share of challenges. One of the main challenges is the high cost of living, which can make it difficult for businesses to attract and retain top talent. Another issue is the bureaucratic barriers that can slow down the process of starting and operating a business. Overall, the business environment in Split is dynamic and promising, with a combination of favourable factors and challenges. With its strategic location, skilled workforce, and government support, the city has the potential to continue its economic growth and attract more businesses in the future.

Local Workforce and Labour

The local workforce drives economic growth, supports innovation, and attracts businesses by reducing recruitment costs. Employed residents expand the tax base, funding infrastructure and services, while promoting social cohesion and reducing inequality.

A skilled, diverse workforce is essential for a city’s prosperity, sustainability, and appeal as a place to live and work.

The labour market in the city of Split in Croatia is heavily influenced by the country's economic and political situation. Despite recent improvements, the labour market in Split continues to face challenges such as high unemployment rates, low wages, and a lack of skilled workers. The main industries in the city include tourism, shipbuilding, and agriculture, with a growing focus on technology and innovation. The workforce is also characterised by a high number of temporary and part-time workers. Efforts are being made to attract foreign investment and create more job opportunities, but there is still a need for further improvements and reforms in order to strengthen the labour market in Split.

Current Population

Population size and demographics are vital to a city’s economy. A larger population attracts investment and supports business growth, while decline can limit services and deter investment, creating economic challenges.

The current population of Split is 178,102.

Unlock the rest of this PEST analysis and city review

Only Premium members gain FULL ACCESS to this city report, along with thousands of business intelligence reports covering 10,000 companies, 100+ industry verticals, 7,000 cities, and 177 countries.

Premium membership costs $65 per month, or $595 annually.

Transport & Infrastructure

Transport infrastructure drives economic growth by connecting people, goods, and services, boosting business efficiency and market access. It enhances workforce mobility, attracts investment, creates jobs, and supports tourism. Better transport systems improve quality of life by reducing commute times, increasing safety, and lowering environmental impact.

Split, a city located on the Adriatic coast of Croatia, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. However, in recent years, the city has faced challenges in terms of transportation and infrastructure. With a growing population and increasing tourism, the demand for efficient and sustainable modes of transportation is crucial for the city's development. The government of Split must prioritise investments in modernising and expanding their transportation network, including roads, public transportation, and waterways. This will not only improve the quality of life for its residents but also enhance the overall experience for tourists, making Split a more attractive and accessible destination.

Market Outlook

Understanding city market trends helps businesses optimize strategy, investment, and workforce planning while offering a competitive edge. Policymakers use trends to shape regulations and infrastructure, while urban developers align plans for housing, transport, and recreation to future needs.

The city of Split in Croatia has a thriving economy, with a high level of tourism and a strong manufacturing sector. The economic outlook for the city is positive, with potential for continued growth and development in the coming years. One potential trend for the city of Split is the increase in tourism. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant culture, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. In recent years, there has been a steady growth in the number of visitors to the city, and this trend is expected to continue. The government of Croatia has implemented policies to promote tourism, such as investing in infrastructure and increasing marketing efforts, which will likely contribute to the growth of tourism in Split. Another potential trend for the city of Split is the development of its manufacturing sector. The city has a strong industrial base, with a focus on shipbuilding, food processing, and chemical production. These industries have been a major contributor to the city's economy, and there are plans to further expand and diversify the manufacturing sector. This could potentially attract more foreign investment and create new job opportunities, boosting the city's economy. The city of Split is also well-positioned to benefit from the growth of the Croatian economy as a whole. The country has been experiencing steady economic growth in recent years, with a strong focus on export-oriented industries. As a major port city, Split plays a crucial role in the country's export activities. The city's strategic location and well-developed infrastructure make it an ideal hub for trade and commerce, which will likely continue to grow in the coming years. Another potential trend for Split is the development of its technology sector. The city has a growing number of start-ups and tech companies, and there is a strong focus on promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. This has the potential to create new jobs and attract young, talented individuals to the city, further driving economic growth.

PEST Analysis

Cities are influenced by various factors, and a PEST analysis helps urban planners, councils, and businesses assess key macro-environmental elements:

  • Political: Policies, regulations, and stability impact growth and investment attractiveness
  • Economic: Employment, inflation, and income levels shape the city’s business climate and growth potential
  • Social: Demographics and cultural trends help businesses align their strategies with local preferences
  • Technological: Technological advancements enhance infrastructure, services, and business efficiency

A PEST analysis provides insights for informed decision-making on growth and investment.

Political Factors:

Split, located on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, has a stable political environment and is a part of the Republic of Croatia. The country has a parliamentary democracy and a stable government, which provides a positive business environment for companies operating in Split. The government has implemented several policies and initiatives to attract foreign investment and promote economic growth in the city. Croatia is also a member of the European Union, which has opened up opportunities for trade and investment with other member countries. However, the country's recent entry into the EU has brought about changes in policies and regulations, which businesses in Split need to be aware of. The city also has a strong tourism sector, which is heavily influenced by political stability and safety in the region.

Economic Factors:

Split has a growing and diversified economy, with its main industries including tourism, shipbuilding, and agriculture. The city is a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year with its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant culture. The tourism industry contributes significantly to the city's economy, providing employment opportunities and generating revenue. Another major economic factor in Split is its port, which is the largest passenger port in Croatia and an important hub for trade and transportation. The port plays a crucial role in the city's economy, facilitating the import and export of goods and providing employment opportunities. In recent years, the government has also been investing in the development of other sectors, such as technology and innovation, in order to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on tourism. This has led to the emergence of a thriving start-up scene in the city, with several incubators and accelerators supporting the growth of new businesses.

Social Factors:

The people of Split are known for their warm and welcoming nature, which makes it an attractive destination for tourists. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of influences from Greek, Roman, and Venetian civilisations. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city's architecture, cuisine, and traditions. However, like many other European cities, Split is facing challenges related to an aging population and a declining birth rate. This can have an impact on the workforce and economic growth in the long run. Additionally, the city also faces social issues such as income inequality and a growing wealth gap between the rich and the poor.

Technological Factors:

Split has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure, with high-speed internet and mobile networks covering most of the city. This has enabled businesses to adopt advanced technologies and enhance their operations, leading to increased efficiency and productivity. In recent years, the city has also seen a rise in the adoption of smart technologies, such as smart city solutions, which aim to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors. This includes initiatives like smart transportation systems, energy-efficient buildings, and digital services for citizens. However, there is still room for improvement in terms of digitalisation, with some sectors, such as healthcare and education, lagging behind in the adoption of technology. This presents opportunities for businesses to invest in these areas and improve the overall quality of life in the city. Conclusion: Overall, Split presents a favourable environment for businesses, with political stability, a growing economy and a welcoming society. However, the city also faces challenges such as an aging population and income inequality, which need to be addressed in order to sustain long-term economic growth. What's more, the city's focus on developing other sectors, such as technology and innovation, presents opportunities for businesses to diversify and expand their operations. With its beautiful location, rich cultural heritage, and growing economy, Split is a promising city for both investors and tourists alike.

Appendices

The appendices section of this city report contains supplementary information we deem helpful in providing an understanding of the topics covered.

Further Information

To gain full access to this and thousands of additional city, company and industry reports, become a Premium member.

If you cannot find the desired information for the city you are researching then please reach out to our analysis team.

Methodology

This report forms part of our city analysis series, which covers every town and city in the world with a population over 50,000.

The analysis is based on information and learning from the following sources:

  • Proprietary databases
  • Government reports
  • NGO websites
  • API feeds
  • Desk research

Keywords

Related keywords:

More Cities

Disclaimer

All Rights Reserved.

Reproduction of the content produced in this report is prohibited without the prior permission of the publisher, Platform Executive Pty Ltd.

The facts of this report have been gathered in good faith from both primary and secondary sources. It is believed to be correct at the time of publication, but cannot be guaranteed. As such Platform Executive can accept no liability whatever for actions taken based on any information that may subsequently prove to be incorrect.