Jablanički 'Granit' on the verge of closure, uncertain fate of 155 workers

(Patria) - What is unique in the world is failing in BiH. Such is the fate of the Jablanica company "Granit", which processes the famous igneous rock, known for its quality and durability.

The problem in the former Herzegovinian giant is far more complex and beyond legal frameworks.

For years, "Granit" has not had the necessary operating permits, which is why the inspection ordered the sealing of the quarry from which the stone is extracted. The fate of 155 workers is uncertain, writes Federalna.

The workers say they will welcome the inspection and hope for dialogue.

Semir Zukić, a worker at "Granit", says his family's livelihood depends on this job.

"My two brothers and their families depend on this company and this quarry. The only option, and I have said this, is if this closes, I will not work anywhere else – I will pack my family and go abroad," said Zukić.

He points out that during his eight years of work at "Granit", not a single day of employment has been paid, while most of his colleagues have not had their employment contributions connected for up to two decades.

The company's debts amount to billions, despite the value of the granite raw material estimated at 40 billion US dollars. The production facilities today appear dilapidated and devastated.

Abid Šarić, the bankruptcy administrator of "Granit" d.o.o., warns of the urgency of the situation.

"Tomorrow, the inspection is supposed to seal the quarry. Whether they will do it – we will see, but I can responsibly state that in the next few days, "Granit" will no longer be able to operate because it has no raw materials," stated Šarić.

He adds that there is no clear explanation for the administrative obstacles.

"I have no logical explanation as to why we are not getting this document and what exactly is needed," Šarić points out.

For the continuation of operations, a permit from the Federal Ministry of Environment and Tourism is required, which, according to Šarić, was previously issued and did not need to be renewed.

However, while that issue was being resolved, the deadline set by the Government of Herzegovina-Neretva Canton, as the owner of the company, for submitting documentation expired.

Management and workers have also spoken with local authorities, but a concrete solution has not yet been found.

Emir Muratović, the mayor of Jablanica Municipality (SDA), emphasized the limited jurisdiction.

"Our competencies in this case are indeed small, or almost non-existent. As the administrative body of Jablanica Municipality, we are concerned about the fate of our people – about 155 of them, or that many families who depend on this company," said Muratović.

This represents a serious blow to a local community like Jablanica. The relevant ministry confirmed that the company has been operating illegally for years, but they did not wish to appear on camera.

"Granit", which has been in bankruptcy for 16 years, still has significant market demand. However, years of mismanagement and operations outside legal frameworks could lead to the closure of the company after almost a hundred years of existence.