Through a strategic approach and investment in domestic production, the Zenica-Doboj Canton has become an example of successful agricultural development in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Among the key figures driving this progress is Jasmin Čajić, the Cantonal Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, whose work contributes to strengthening the sector and fostering partnerships with producers, proving that vision, dedication, and hard work yield measurable results.
We are approaching the end of 2025. Looking back, have you managed to implement everything you planned? What would you highlight in particular? What was the biggest challenge this year? – Looking back at 2025, I can say that we achieved significant progress in most planned activities. I would especially emphasise strengthening support for agricultural producers through more stable incentives and transparent procedures, as well as investments in modernising machinery and infrastructure in rural areas. The biggest challenges remain the global rise in input prices and climate change, which directly affect yields and production security. Nevertheless, through subsidy programs and educational initiatives, we mitigated the effects and maintained sector stability.
What are the most common problems faced by farmers in the Zenica-Doboj Canton, and how is the Ministry addressing them? – Farmers most often face challenges related to market instability, labour shortages, and high production costs. The Ministry addresses these issues through financial incentives for production and equipment procurement, education and advisory support, connecting producers with processors and buyers, and investments in irrigation and flood protection systems to reduce the risk of natural disasters. We also increasingly encourage farmers to join cooperatives and clusters to enhance competitiveness and market access.
What is the state of the forests in the Canton, especially regarding protection and sustainable management? Are there any new projects related to reforestation or combating illegal logging? – The condition of the forests is generally stable but requires constant attention and supervision. Our focus is on sustainable forest management, meaning that logging must be carried out according to plans and followed by mandatory reforestation. In 2025, we implemented several reforestation projects on degraded land, especially in areas affected by landslides and fires. At the same time, we strengthened inspection, which is already yielding results in reducing illegal exploitation. Our goal is to maintain a balance between the economic use of forests and their ecological and recreational functions, as forests are not only a resource but also a legacy for future generations.
How are water quality monitoring and the protection of water sources being carried out? Are there plans for new investments in flood protection or irrigation systems? – Water quality monitoring is carried out regularly in cooperation with public companies, institutes, and laboratories. We place special emphasis on protecting drinking water sources through sanitary protection zones and strict control over the use of chemicals nearby. We are planning new investments to support irrigation systems for agricultural land, which directly strengthen the sector’s resilience to climate change.
Does the Ministry plan to support the development of young farmers and encourage young people to return to rural areas? Are there plans to modernise the incentive system? – Absolutely. Young people are the key to the survival and development of rural areas. Our goal is to make agriculture attractive as a stable and modern business, not just a tradition. We are also working on digitalising the incentive system to make applications simpler, processing faster, and payments more transparent. This is one of the most important steps toward a modern and efficient administration.
Green tourism and ecological production are becoming increasingly important. Does the Canton plan to develop a brand of local eco-products or certified organic farms? – Yes, that is one of our strategic development directions. The Zenica-Doboj Canton has the potential to be recognised for its authentic eco-products, from honey and dairy to medicinal herbs and fruit. The Ministry, in cooperation with local communities and chambers of commerce, is working on promoting organic and certified farms that would also attract tourists. The combination of eco-production and tourism adds extra value to both rural communities and the Canton as a whole.
How do you support projects that connect agriculture, processing, and tourism? – We support them in various ways – through co-financing of local projects and fairs of domestic products, support for the development of clusters and cooperatives, and cooperation with tourist associations in creating agrotourism routes. Such projects create new value, generate employment, and strengthen the local economy.If you were to highlight one project you want to complete by the end of your mandate, which one would it be, and how would you like citizens to remember you? – If I were to highlight one project, it would be the construction and modernisation of irrigation and flood protection systems in agricultural zones. This project directly affects production security, rural development, and environmental protection. I would like to be remembered as a minister who strengthened the foundations of sustainable agriculture, preserved our forests and waters, and created better conditions for generations to come.