Investors’ Forum News

At an open forum titled “Defend the Economy”, held in Vilnius, over 200 business associations invited Lithuanian policymakers to engage in discussions about the country’s proposed tax reform. Economists and representatives from various industry and business sectors emphasized that the current restructuring of the tax system is being carried out hastily and without proper assessment. They argued that alternative methods of funding defense have not been adequately considered, and well-reasoned arguments are being overlooked.

Starting from May 2, Vytautas Šilinskas has taken over as the head of the Investors’ Forum, an association uniting the largest and most active investors in Lithuania’s economy. A lawyer and labor law specialist, as well as a former Minister of Social Security and Labor, Šilinskas succeeds Rūta Skyrienė, who had led the association since 2003. He joined the leadership team of the association in February as Head of Policy and Corporate Affairs.

The association Investors’ Forum, uniting the largest and most active investors in the Lithuanian economy, has selected companies, individuals, and organizations whose activities most improved the country’s business environment and investment climate last year. During the awards ceremony held for the fourteenth time, the title of Investor of the Year 2024 was awarded to the company Biotechpharma. The telecommunications company Telia Lietuva was recognized for its socially responsible activities.

Lithuania faces exceptional international tension and uncertainty, underscoring the need for a stable business environment that fosters long-term investments, drives economic growth, and supports national defense. This perspective was highlighted by leaders of the Investors’ Forum, an association uniting the largest and most active investors in the Lithuanian economy, during a meeting with cabinet members.

The leaders of associations uniting Lithuanian and foreign capital companies operating in the country have approached the government, calling for immediate discussions with business organizations regarding planned tax changes. Representatives from the Investors’ Forum association, the Unicorns Lithuania association, the Lithuanian Employers’ Confederation, the Lithuanian Confederation of Industrialists, the Lithuanian Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Crafts, and the Lithuanian Business Confederation note that national security is the highest priority and that increasing funding for the country’s defense is necessary.