Government allocates €1.25 million to encourage the development of warm-blooded horse breeds

The Croatian government has allocated 1.25 million euros for the National Program to Encourage the Development of Warmblood Horse Breeds in the Republic of Croatia for the period 2026–2030. This decision was made during a meeting held on Thursday, marking a significant investment aimed at enhancing the breeding and quality of warmblood horse breeds within the country. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to support the long-term growth and sustainability of the equine industry in Croatia.

According to David Vlajčić, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, the five-year program seeks to improve the breeding practices of warmblood horses while simultaneously increasing the quality of foals born in Croatia. In addition to this, the program aims to encourage the participation of these horses in sporting competitions and ensure transparent financial support for organizing and maintaining equestrian events held in the country.

This new five-year program continues a systematic approach that began back in 2015. To date, two similar programs have been successfully implemented, resulting in a 24 percent increase in the number of breeding stallions and a remarkable 45 percent rise in the number of foals produced. These outcomes highlight the effectiveness of previous initiatives and provide a strong foundation upon which this new program will build.

The program consists of two main measures and five sub-measures, targeting eligible beneficiaries such as horse owners, national sports federations, and clubs affiliated with these federations. It is estimated that the number of participants will exceed 200. The total financial resources allocated for implementing the program amount to 1.25 million euros, equivalent to 250,000 euros annually. For the year 2026, this sum is secured within the financial plan of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. It is also planned for inclusion in projections for the years 2027 and 2028. Funding for the years 2029 and 2030 will be secured when preparing the budget plans for the upcoming three-year period within the overall expenditure limits allocated to the ministry's division.

The program reflects a strategic effort to enhance both the economic and competitive aspects of the equestrian sector in Croatia. By focusing on improving breeding standards and encouraging participation in sports, the government hopes to elevate the status of Croatian warmblood horses on both national and international levels. This includes ensuring that local breeders and organizations receive adequate financial backing to sustain their operations and contribute to the broader equestrian community.

The funding structure outlines clear allocations over the five-year period, with specific amounts set aside each year. This structured approach ensures continuity and allows for adjustments based on evolving needs and priorities within the sector. The involvement of multiple stakeholders, including national sports federations and individual horse owners, underscores the collaborative nature of the initiative and its potential impact on the wider equine industry.

Looking ahead, the implementation of this program is expected to bring about measurable improvements in the quality and quantity of warmblood horses bred in Croatia. As the program progresses, ongoing evaluations and assessments will likely play a crucial role in determining its success and identifying areas for further refinement. With the support of the government and the active participation of various stakeholders, the future of the warmblood horse breeding industry in Croatia appears promising.