The Croatian Employers' Association (HUP) on Wednesday welcomed the relaxation of some of the anti-epidemic rules, which will make it easier for entrepreneurs to do business.

The association expressed hope that the remaining measures would be relaxed as well, saying that cafes should be able to reopen their indoor spaces, as well as other catering establishments.

HUP pushed for the continued implementation of government-sponsored schemes that can help businesses deal with the coronavirus crisis as long as their revenues do not reach the pre-pandemic levels. In this context, the association said that many companies could reach those levels only in a few months’ time, although they can already start doing business as usual.

This particularly concerns micro and small businesses, which make up the backbone of the Croatian economy, HUP said.

As of May 28, coronavirus restrictions will be eased to allow gatherings of more than 100 people and private gatherings will no longer be banned, while public events can last until 11 pm, the national COVID-19 response team said on Wednesday, adding that the measures would remain in force until mid-June.

Restaurants will be allowed to serve guests indoors while cafes and bars will still only be allowed to serve guests outdoors.

Bakeries can stay open until 11 pm instead of 10 pm and alcohol must not be sold from 11 pm to 6 am. There is no limit to the number of people attending funerals but there must be no close contact between those attending