AGP Executive Report

Aviation & Tourism: Air China launched the first regular Beijing–Zagreb passenger flights on Sept. 4, operating three times a week via Bucharest, giving Croatia a year-round China link and boosting tourism and business ties. EU & Regional Politics: The return of war criminal Ratko Mladić’s body to Serbia sparked EU backlash, with Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos cancelling a visit and warning Serbia’s EU path is at stake if honours glorify him. Defense: Croatia is moving ahead with a €435.2m deal to buy 18 South Korean Chunmoo K239 rocket launchers, extending strike reach to over 300km and upgrading command-and-control via Poland’s WB Group. Local Economy & Demographics: Croatia’s population rose slightly in 2025 to 3.87m, with growth concentrated in parts of the coast and Zagreb. Transport & Tech: Uber began supervised autonomous taxi rides in London with Wayve tech, while Croatia’s own robotaxi efforts face scrutiny over EU funding. Tourism & Culture: Dubrovnik’s Kupari Four Seasons project is officially a construction site, but major works haven’t started yet. Sports: Croatian sailors Razjaren defended the Melges 24 European Championship title in heavy-weather racing.

Robotaxis in the spotlight: Uber has launched public autonomous rides in London with fewer than 20 Wayve-powered electric Ford Mach-E cars, with a licensed supervisor inside at first and no service to airports—London becomes the second European city after Zagreb. Air links for Croatia: Air Canada’s big summer 2027 expansion includes a new Montreal–Dubrovnik direct route starting May 11, plus wider Europe and Asia growth that also adds Dubrovnik to its network. Dubrovnik tourism keeps climbing: Dubrovnik Airport hit another record in August with 566,259 passengers, and the airport has already topped 2.34 million passengers this year. Local rules tighten in Varaždin: The city will ban alcohol sales in shops and kiosks after 22:00, with fines for public drinking outside bar/restaurant premises. Culture and film funding: Croatia’s Audiovisual Centre distributed €344,000 to minority coproductions, while Croatia selected “God Will Not Help” for the Oscars’ Best International Feature Film category. Sports note: Tyson Fury said Moses Itauma fought Filip Hrgovic “too soon,” arguing it could cost him a major payday.

Tourism & Economy: Croatia’s August spending jumped as fiscalised receipts hit €6.56bn, up 17% year-on-year, with tourism and hospitality driving much of the rise; Dubrovnik-Neretva County also logged over 2.07 million overnight stays in August, with Britons leading. Transport & Infrastructure: Jadrolinija carried 9.3 million passengers in the first eight months of 2026 and is expanding routes, including a new Zadar–Ancona fast ferry; the Port of Rijeka faced a 48-hour rail shutdown after a derailment near Sušak Pećine. City Life: Zagreb starts its school-year timetable changes from Monday, with tram and bus route adjustments. Aviation: Air Canada announced major Summer 2027 growth, adding direct links including Dubrovnik to Montréal. Tech & Mobility: Uber and Wayve launched London’s first public robotaxi rides with a safety operator onboard, while Croatia’s own robotaxi project faces scrutiny over EU-backed funding. Politics & Justice: Germany is set to begin a Nord Stream sabotage trial in October in Hamburg. Sports: Luka Modrić reiterated he wants to return to Real Madrid; Tyson Fury said Moses Itauma fought Filip Hrgović too early, potentially costing him big money.

Robotaxi rollout in London: Uber and Wayve have launched London’s first self-driving taxi service via the Uber app, starting with fewer than 20 Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles and a human safety supervisor onboard; full driverless approval still depends on UK regulators. Croatia-Serbia support for Croats: Croatia awarded €2 million to 257 agricultural holdings across 33 Serbian settlements to back Croatian farmers, aiming to strengthen the community and keep people on the land. Dubrovnik police upgrade: Villa Palma, the Dubrovnik-Neretva Police HQ, reopened after a €2.6 million energy renovation funded by EU money, preserving the historic look while improving working conditions. Dubrovnik tourism steady: The city is up slightly year-on-year with about 960,000 arrivals and 3.1 million overnight stays through late August. Heat and drought pressure: Croatia’s summer 2026 was extremely warm and drier in parts, with DHMZ reporting temperature deviations up to 3.3°C above normal. Transport link update: Jadrolinija extended the fast Zadar–Ancona ferry service to Sept. 6 after strong demand. Boxing spotlight: Filip Hrgović’s IBF heavyweight win over Moses Itauma puts Croatia’s first heavyweight world champion in the top division mix.

Robotaxi Accountability: Croatia’s Verne says it will return €89.7m in NRRP advance funding if a final evaluation finds it missed contractual targets, after the project’s completion and remaining checks on disability vouchers, adapted autonomous vehicles and specialised infrastructure. Tourism Capacity Boost: Bjelovar launched a €1.25m grant scheme to co-finance up to 50% of eligible costs for new tourist accommodation ahead of the Wellovar thermal spa, aiming for at least 150 new rooms. Dubrovnik Visitor Management: The Dubrovnik Pass has reached the final of European sustainable cultural tourism awards, while the city is also planting 57 trees for a “Green Ring” and opening a 24-hour public toilet in the Old City. Lokrum Naturism Row: After signs were removed, Lokrum officials installed new guidance saying naturist bathing remains permitted in the long-used area, following public reaction and a petition. Energy & Mobility: Croatia plans new electric-vehicle subsidies for citizens (plug-in hybrids excluded), with a call expected in autumn. Boxing Spotlight: Croatian Filip Hrgović’s IBF heavyweight win over Moses Itauma continues to dominate headlines, with Itauma’s corner tactics and recovery updates in focus.

Tourism & Local Life: Dubrovnik opened a new 24-hour public toilet in the Old City, while the city also keeps pushing its visitor-management model—its Dubrovnik Pass has reached the final of European sustainable tourism awards, and a “Green Ring” project is planting 57 new trees near the walls. Environment & Weather: September sea-temperature records were broken in Split and Komiža, with readings around 28°C and even higher near Mljet. Community & Rights: A petition has been launched after signs were removed from a long-used Lokrum nudist beach, with residents calling for a legal framework to continue naturism. Infrastructure for Health: Pelješac’s new Rehabilitation and Hippotherapy Centre secured co-financing, aiming to expand support for children with developmental difficulties and people with disabilities. Economy: Croatia’s inflation picked up to 4.1% in August, driven mainly by energy and services costs. EU Politics: Croatia’s PM said Serbia’s EU path would be closed if it holds a state funeral for war criminal Ratko Mladić with honours.

EU Power Shift: Croatia’s PM Plenković joined Czech and Slovenian leaders at the Bled Strategic Forum to argue Central Europe should use its growing weight to shape EU policy, with Hungary’s Magyar also calling for less bureaucracy and more nation-state leadership. Inflation Watch: Croatia’s inflation hit 4.1% in August, driven mainly by energy (+17.4%); services also rose (+7.2%). EU Recovery Cash: Croatia has received €7.3bn of its €10bn EU recovery package, with final payments expected after the last targets are completed by year-end. Household Energy Help: A €38m solar and heat-pump subsidy scheme opens for applications, adding battery storage support for the first time. Demography: Croatia recorded 924 more births in the first seven months of 2026, with July births topping 3,000 for the first time in six years. Football Moves: Deadline-day transfers keep rolling—Hajduk’s Niko Sigur is set for Toulouse, Jakov Medic is loaned to Utrecht, and Jakov Medic’s exit is tied to Forson’s likely move to Israel. Boxing Spotlight: Moses Itauma’s first pro loss to Filip Hrgović sparked fresh debate over his corner and next steps as he vows “I’ll be back.” Travel & Culture: Zagreb launches 31 free guided tours in September, while Cres wins The Guardian’s “unsung island” reader tip.

Boxing Shock in London: Filip Hrgović became Croatia’s first heavyweight world champion after a ninth-round comeback TKO over Moses Itauma, who was later released from hospital and vowed to return. Aftermath & Fallout: Both fighters face suspensions, with Itauma’s camp now focused on recovery and a smarter next step. Zagreb Food Tourism: A look at Dolac Market’s morning buzz shows how Zagreb is leaning harder into its growing reputation as a gastronomic destination. Dubrovnik Water Polo Milestone: The first-ever World Aquatics Water Polo 4x4 Open Championships opened in Dubrovnik, using a faster format designed to draw new audiences. Split Tourism Pressure: A Split landlord’s August worries point to deeper strain in the rental market, while the city is also pushing an €80m mobility plan with 1,300 new parking spaces. Travel Timing Shift: Booking data suggests more Croats are traveling post-season for fewer crowds and better value. Dubrovnik Superyacht Watch: Multiple ultra-luxury yachts have been spotted off Dubrovnik and near Cavtat, fueling fresh speculation about who’s aboard. US Open Croatian Connection: Australian Kim Birrell advanced after beating Croatian Petra Marcinko, reaching the second round. Sports & Culture: FEST in Belgrade will open with a Lordan Zafranović film about children at Jasenovac.

Croatian Sports Spotlight: Moses Itauma has broken his silence after losing his first pro fight and being carried out on a stretcher following his IBF heavyweight title bout vs Filip Hrgović at London’s O2. Itauma says he “attempted greatness” but fell short to the “more experienced man,” thanking fans and promising: “I’ll be back.” Croatia in the News: Jadrolinija has extended its new Zadar–Ancona fast ferry service until 6 September after strong early demand, with extra sailings and crossings of about four hours. Local Life & Infrastructure: A new 1-kilometre bypass has opened in Fužine (Gorski Kotar), diverting heavy and forestry traffic away from the town centre to cut congestion, noise and improve safety. Health & Consumer Rules: Croatia is rolling out digital age verification for online alcohol sales via the m-Građani app, with retailers given until 15 September to implement the system. Economy & Daily Costs: Dubrovnik property prices are pushing beyond €8,000 per square metre, pricing many locals out as foreign buyers increasingly dominate the market. Culture: Croatian music legend Stjepan “Jimmy” Stanić has died at 98, ending a seven-decade career.

Croatian Boxing Glory: Filip Hrgović stopped Moses Itauma in the ninth round to become Croatia’s first heavyweight world champion, winning the vacant IBF title after Itauma’s corner threw in the towel; Itauma was taken from the O2 on a stretcher but later released a message saying, “I’ll be back.” US Open Weather & Shocks: Rain and roof rules disrupted play at Flushing Meadows, while Novak Djokovic suffered a shock first-round exit; Croatian tennis also featured as Marin Čilić withdrew injured, replaced by lucky loser Otto Virtanen. Croatia in Sports Abroad: Ivica Zubac powered Croatia’s win over the Netherlands with a double-double in FIBA action. Local Security & Identity: Split police detained a Serbian influencer over Chetnik tattoos and ordered a 5-year Croatia entry ban after misdemeanour proceedings. Travel & Lifestyle: A spotlight on Kucel Beach, a sandy Sava-side escape less than an hour from Zagreb, plus Losinj’s “island of vitality” appeal in shoulder seasons. Regional Business: OFAC extended operating licenses tied to NIS and JANAF, keeping oil and pipeline operations moving while deals involving Gazprom and MOL near completion.

IBF Title Shock in London: Croatia’s Filip Hrgović stopped Moses Itauma in the ninth round to become the first Croatian heavyweight world champion, after Itauma’s late fatigue flipped a fight he led early; Itauma was stretchered out and taken to hospital, but later discharged and recovering at home. Health & Recovery Watch: Promoters said the hospital trip was precautionary, with initial concerns including a possible leg issue, while Hrgović urged Itauma to rebuild with more experience. Public Health in Zagreb: West Nile virus was confirmed in dead crows, prompting urgent mosquito-control measures across the city, including targeting larvae and adult mosquitoes and advising residents to remove standing water. Adriatic Biosecurity: Croatian scientists launched an early-warning monitoring system (ALIENA) to track non-native species spreading in the Adriatic, warning that some could disrupt marine ecosystems and fisheries. Tourism Policy: The EU is preparing new restrictions on Airbnb-style short-term rentals, with cities like Dubrovnik cited among hotspots under pressure. Dubrovnik Heat: An orange heat warning remains in place for the Dubrovnik region, with temperatures expected above 32°C. Economy Snapshot: Retail sales rose for the 40th straight month, while GDP growth slowed to 1.7% year-on-year in Q2.

Croatian Sports Spotlight: Filip Hrgović made history in London, stopping Moses Itauma in the ninth round to win the vacant IBF heavyweight world title and become Croatia’s first heavyweight champion. Itauma had dominated early and even knocked Hrgović down in round two, but fatigue and a late momentum shift proved decisive as Hrgović surged forward; Itauma’s corner threw in the towel and he was stretchered out and taken to hospital. Next Steps in Boxing: Promoter Frank Warren says Hrgović’s path forward could include a fight in Croatia, while others point to Frank Sanchez as the next opponent. Travel & Local Life: Dubrovnik Airport has upgraded security screening, so passengers no longer need to remove liquids or electronics from hand luggage, aiming for a faster, smoother process for travelers. Aviation Disruption Watch: For anyone flying from the Gulf, airlines including Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia and flydubai are reporting mixed cancellations and delays, with some Middle East services still suspended.

Oil & Sanctions: JANAF secured a US OFAC sanctions licence extension, letting it keep crude oil flowing to Serbia’s NIS until Sept 30, 2026. Dubrovnik Travel & Tourism: Croatia Airlines introduced “My First Flight” certificates for children flying for the first time, while Dubrovnik Airport rolled out new high-tech security scanners so passengers can keep liquids and electronics in cabin bags. Dubrovnik Economy & Work: Wages rose across Croatia, but Dubrovnik-Neretva lagged, with net pay up 6.8% to €1,446—well below the national average. Public Health & Safety: Dubrovnik faced another sweltering, humid day with a red extreme-heat warning, and Croatia also reported West Nile virus detection in Zagreb. Culture & Sports: Stradun Classic Festival opened with Italian-themed performances in Dubrovnik, and water polo goes global in the Old Harbour with a new 4×4 world championship backed by a €50,000 county donation. Boxing (Croatian spotlight): Filip Hrgović defends his IBF heavyweight title hopes against Moses Itauma at London’s O2 after a chaotic weigh-in.

IBF Title Drama in London: Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgović turned their vacant heavyweight world-title weigh-in into a brawl, with Itauma shoving the Croatian off stage and Hrgović firing back with a slap before security stepped in. Both made weight at 241.7 lbs (Itauma) and 232.6 lbs (Hrgović), setting up Saturday’s O2 Arena showdown where Itauma aims to become Britain’s youngest-ever heavyweight champion and Hrgović wants to deliver Croatia’s first. Croatia in the Spotlight Abroad: Niko Sigur says he wants to leave Hajduk Split after a substantial offer from Toulouse, with the Canadian having played 121 matches for Hajduk and recently featuring in their Europa Conference League playoff win. Health Tourism Boost: A new Thermal Hotel Wrello opened in Zagorje after a €17.6 million EU-backed investment, adding a four-star facility with year-round pool and wellness access tied to the Special Hospital in Stubičke Toplice. Local Heritage Stories: Ploče’s name has changed four times in 45 years, and Hvar’s Velo Grablje—once dubbed the village of millionaires—now has just 20 residents.

Croatian Economy: Croatia’s growth is easing, with GDP growth reported at 1.7% in Q2, adding pressure to households and businesses. Public Health: West Nile virus has been confirmed in Zagreb after dead crows were found across multiple locations, prompting calls for residents to report clusters of dead wild birds. Animal Health: Croatia has partially lifted African swine fever restriction zones as the situation improves; officials say no new outbreaks among domestic pigs have been confirmed since Aug. 4, though the virus remains in wild boar. International Justice & Regional Politics: Serbia says convicted war criminal Ratko Mladić will be buried with “highest state honours,” while Croatia-linked calls for accountability for wartime crimes continue to echo in regional debate. Football (Europa League): Dinamo Zagreb is set to face Rennes in the Europa League league phase, with the draw also featuring major matchups involving European clubs and Croatian teams. Sports (Boxing): Croatian heavyweight Filip Hrgović says he’ll “smash the kid” Moses Itauma ahead of their IBF title fight in London.

Football Transfers: Barcelona has confirmed the signing of Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livaković from Fenerbahçe on a four-year deal until 2030, with the club weighing whether he joins the first team or goes out on loan. EU Politics in the Region: Montenegro’s PM Milojko Spajić warns of coordinated “hybrid” destabilisation efforts tied to EU accession talks, saying Podgorica has received serious security intelligence. Sports—Croatia on the Global Stage: BRAVE CF brings its first-ever Croatia event to Pula Arena on September 5 with BRAVE CF 108, headlined by Croatian fighter Andi Vrtacic. Local Life & Safety: Croatia says drinking water is safe across Lika, Rab and Pag after concerns linked to an illegal waste site near Gospić, with monitoring finding no contamination in public supplies. Wildfire Watch: A fire in the Konavle hills has burned for 10 days, spreading from Bosnia, with Canadair aircraft and crews working to protect homes. Pensions: Croatian pensions are set to rise again from July 1, 2026, with the new pension value set at 15.64 euros.