Lithuanian business leaders warn foreign worker limits could shave billions off growth

Lithuanian business leaders gathered in Vilnius to argue that the country's quota system for non-EU workers is stifling economic expansion. They cited figures showing roughly 175,000 foreign nationals were employed at the start of the year, contributing to 45 % of GDP growth between 2019 and 2024, according to the Bank of Lithuania. With the quota already filled for 2025, they estimate a loss of €100-150 million in GDP this year and up to €550 million by 2027, alongside €20-25 million in foregone tax revenue annually.

The transport sector, which relies heavily on foreign drivers, exemplifies the issue, with about 80,000 non-EU drivers supporting 150,000 jobs. Industry representatives stressed that the shortage affects all levels of production, from welders to forklift operators, and called for a reassessment of migration controls while acknowledging security concerns.