Starting with scientifically based knowledge on the determinants of long-term economic growth and the role of international trade, particularly exports in the process of economic growth; in this doctoral dissertation macroeconomic assumptions have been proposed for accelerating economic growth through increased export capacity of the Croatian economy. In the theoretical background of research, we presented all the relevant determinants of long-term economic growth. Special attention is put on importance and limits of economic growth, and differentiation of economic growth and economic development. Also, we analyze the process of the long-term economic growth of selected group of countries and explain the impact of international trade and export sector to their long-term economic growth. The main part of the research of doctoral dissertation is focused on analysis and evaluation of export capabilities of the Croatian economy through the analysis of Croatian trade policy and liberalization process, as well as Croatian involvement in bilateral and multilateral trade agreements. Special attention was put on the export competitiveness of Croatian economy and the economic effects of export Croatian offensive. We conclude that the export competitiveness of Croatian economy is extremely low, while the import dependence is emphasized; while the Croatian economic relationship with foreign countries is evaluated negatively in the context of economic growth and development. Assessment of the current Croatian model of economic growth and selected European countries in transition has been made using quantitative methods of regression analysis (panel method). For Croatia, the model assesses the period between 1995. and 2008. In the same way, but for the two subperiods (1991.-2000. and 2001.-2008.) analyzes the economic growth in selected European transitional countries. Based on obtained results, we have found common determinants, which were of strategic importance for economic growth in Croatia and selected transition economies, which were: macroeconomic stability, export, foreign direct investment (FDI) and human resources. Based on the analysis, we have made macroeconomic framework that promotes economic growth through increased export capacity of the Croatian economy. In dissertation we define the elements of trade policy, taking into account the fact that Croatia will join to the European Union very soon; and are designed fiscal and monetary policy in order to increase export capacity. Finally, we specify the neccesary requairments to increase export capacity as a determinant of Croatian economic growth: conversion of the comparative into the competitive advantages, diversification within the existing production structure and economic restructuring in order to increase exports capabilities.