The Regional Center for Strategic and Political Initiatives, in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, conducted extensive research and prepared a study titled "New Approach to the European Integration of the Western Balkans." The study aims to complement the existing approach to the EU integration of the regional countries by proposing faster access to the EU single market.&nbsp;
One of the authors, Mr. Nenad Đurđević, states that the study offers a comprehensive approach to strengthening the partnership between the Western Balkans and the EU. The goal is to accelerate the EU accession process and enhance regional cooperation.&nbsp;
"Our study comprehensively analyzes the past experience of EU accession and regional integration and proposes necessary adjustments, particularly in light of the EU New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans," says Đurđević.
The study suggests concrete changes to the previous approach of Western Balkan countries to European integration, as well as changes to the rules applied by the EU. "We propose the introduction of a new regional agreement for the automatic extension of EU rules within the Common Regional Market of the Western Balkans, focusing on specific sectors and areas. We have detailed proposals for amending the Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA) with aim to progressively expand the rights and obligations of the Western Balkan countries upon fulfilling pre-defined conditions in order to enable efficient implementation of integration policies. We seek greater partnership between the WB region and the EU, especially in energy, sustainable mining, and critical materials. And of course, there is a need for greater financial assistance and support for the Western Balkan countries, which will be tailored to the needs of implementing the proposed integration policies," says Đurđević. The complete study "A New Approach to European Integration of the Western Balkans" and the “Policy Brief” can be found on the following link.
<a href="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/A New Approach to the Western Balkans integration_STUDY.pdf">A New Approach to the Western Balkans integration_STUDY.pdf</a>
<a href="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/A New Approach to the WB-EU integration_POLICY BRIEF1.pdf">A New Approach to the WB-EU integration_POLICY BRIEF.pdf</a>
Nenad Đurđević, advisor to the CCIS President
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Analysis: New Approach to European Integration of the Western Balkans

Ahead of a roundtable dedicated to strengthening cooperation between Serbian and French companies, organised by the Serbian Chamber of Commerce (SCC) in partnership with Business France, the French national agency supporting the international development of the French economy, SCC President Marko Čadež met with the agency’s Director General, Louis Margueritte, and French Ambassador Florence Ferrari to discuss opportunities for enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting was held at the French Embassy in Belgrade.
The discussions focused on connecting the two countries’ technology sectors, organising a business forum during EXPO 2027, and support from Business France for the participation of French companies in GITEX AI Belgrade, a technology and innovation exhibition taking place from 25 to 27 May 2027 during EXPO 2027 in Belgrade.
Margueritte emphasised that the opening of Business France’s Western Balkans office in Belgrade sends a clear signal of strengthening economic relations between Serbia and France. He invited a Serbian business delegation to participate in a business forum scheduled to take place at the French Senate in late November and proposed signing a memorandum of understanding between the two institutions.
The SCC President highlighted the importance of strengthening the partnership between the SCC and Business France, which would create new opportunities for market access, knowledge exchange and business networking. The shared goal is to translate the increasingly strong relations between Serbia and France into new contracts, investments and long-term economic cooperation.
Further opportunities for cooperation with Business France include the joint organisation of targeted visits by French buyers to Serbian companies (“buyer missions”). The SCC designs these visits to meet the needs of potential partners, with the aim of connecting domestic producers with international supply chains.

Technological Cooperation and EXPO 2027 at the Centre of Talks Between the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Business France

Representatives of Serbian companies from the metal, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and veterinary sectors met at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco, Omar Amgar to discuss opportunities for concretizing and further enhancing business cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting provided an opportunity for companies that already do business with Morocco, as well as those considering entering the Moroccan market, to present their interests, questions and challenges, and to learn directly about business and investment opportunities in Morocco.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/DSC06044.jpg" id="image-tag-1791537868500" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2436"></div>
Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia Mihailo Vesović said that there is an interest in further institutionalizing cooperation between the two business communities and focusing it on concrete business opportunities.
“We are ready to hold a Business Council meeting, and we also want a formal meeting of the Business Council to take place. There is significant interest among small companies as well, particularly suppliers. Our strategy is to identify the key interests and bring in large companies that could later include smaller companies as suppliers,” Vesović said.
He pointed out that strengthening direct contacts between businesspeople and improving connections between companies could open up opportunities for new forms of cooperation, as well as for the inclusion of smaller Serbian companies in supply chains.
Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco Omar Amgar said that one of the priorities of his mission in Serbia is to strengthen the friendly relations between the two countries and explore their potential for stronger economic ties.
“My mission is to strengthen the friendly ties and the advantages that exist between our two countries and to explore their potential from an economic perspective. My aim is to hear the expectations of Serbian companies and the difficulties they are facing,” Amgar said.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/DSC06093.jpg" id="image-tag-1791537847748" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2433"></div>
Presenting Morocco’s economic potential, the Ambassador stressed that the country is committed to an open and entrepreneurial economy, with a legal framework that supports investment and business development. He particularly highlighted Morocco’s geographical position, which represents an important advantage for accessing European, African and other global markets.
As he noted, Morocco is only 13 kilometres from Spain and has well-developed transport and logistics links, while free trade agreements with the European Union, the United States and African countries further expand opportunities for companies operating from this market.
The Ambassador also presented measures undertaken by Morocco to encourage investment, including the Investment Charter adopted in 2022, as well as financial incentives for the development of specific regions and sectors.
Particular attention was paid to the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the chambers of commerce of Serbia and Morocco, which provides a basis for further connecting the two business communities and organizing joint activities.
“The Memorandum signed by the chambers of commerce should be used to strengthen cooperation and business visits. I want us to make our cooperation more concrete, because we have shared potential and a common interest in cooperation,” Amgar said.
Next year will mark 70 years of diplomatic relations between Serbia and Morocco, which, as noted, presents an additional opportunity to strengthen the friendly relations between the two countries through more intensive economic cooperation.

​Serbian Companies Interested in Expanding Business into the Moroccan Market

Air Serbia has established a strategic partnership with GITEX AI Belgrade, connecting its international network with the global reach of one of the world’s largest platforms for artificial intelligence and technology. The partnership aims to strengthen international connectivity and facilitate access to Southeast Europe’s growing technology ecosystem.
Through this partnership, Air Serbia will further contribute to connecting key markets across the Western Balkans and Southeast Europe with global business, technology and investment hubs.
GITEX AI, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and organized by inD, is the official technology and business event taking place as part of the Specialized Expo 2027. It will be held from 25 to 27 May 2027 at the Belgrade Fair and will bring together global technology companies, startups, investors and government representatives from 19 regional markets.
With this agreement, Air Serbia has become one of only four airlines in the world to establish such a partnership with GITEX, alongside Emirates, Singapore Airlines and Royal Air Maroc, and the only airline from Southeast Europe to hold such a status.
The partnership brings together Air Serbia’s international network and the global GITEX ecosystem, with a shared goal of connecting people, markets and business opportunities. Air Serbia connects Belgrade with more than 100 destinations worldwide, while the global GITEX network spans six continents and covers 14 countries and cities, connecting 647,500 visitors, 18,200 technology companies and 5,050 investors managing assets worth USD 3.5 trillion every year.
Jirži Marek, CEO of Air Serbia, said: “Our network was built to connect Serbia with the world, and this partnership extends that role into one of the most dynamic areas of economic growth – technology and innovation. GITEX will bring business leaders, investors and innovators from around the world to Belgrade, and Air Serbia is proud to contribute to connecting this community with Serbia and the wider Southeast European region.”
Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, said that it was a great honour for Belgrade to bring together two global players – GITEX and Air Serbia.
“On the one hand, we have GITEX, one of the world’s largest technology platforms, bringing together thousands of innovative technology companies from around the world, which has chosen to come to Belgrade. From 25 May, GITEX AI Belgrade will position our capital not only as a regional, but also as one of the important technology and innovation hubs on the European continent. We expect more than 20,000 participants and thousands of companies from the technology and innovation sectors,” Čadež stressed.
He added that the natural partner for such a global event is precisely Air Serbia, the national carrier connecting Belgrade with more than 100 destinations across different continents.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/DSC05733_960x540.jpg" id="image-tag-1790934955235" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2429"></div>
“If we say that GITEX Global connects the world of technology and innovation, then Air Serbia today also connects different parts of the world – east and west, north and south – through direct routes at a time when the world is becoming increasingly divided. That is precisely why Air Serbia is a global player and a natural partner for GITEX,” Čadež concluded.
Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Director of GITEX, addressing the signing ceremony from the company’s headquarters in Dubai, said: “Belgrade has always been a meeting point between East and West, which makes Air Serbia a natural partner for GITEX AI Belgrade. Together, we can facilitate access to Southeast Europe for the global technology community, while enabling innovators from the region to establish connections that reach far beyond their domestic markets.”
GITEX AI Belgrade will bring together hundreds of international investors from more than 20 countries, managing assets worth USD 50 billion. Through cross-border cooperation, as well as public-private partnerships, the event will drive investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure and digital solutions, while creating opportunities for commercial partnerships, technology pilot projects and expansion into international markets.
As many as 140 countries have already confirmed their participation in Specialized Expo 2027, while high-level ministerial delegations, as well as business, technology and investment delegations from around the world, will gather at GITEX AI Belgrade during the second week of Expo.
Over three days, GITEX AI Belgrade will showcase technologies shaping Southeast Europe’s digital economy, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data centres, cloud technologies and connectivity, robotics, quantum technologies, fintech and smart cities, while creating a platform for regional and international cooperation.
Photo and video: Boban Ristić

Air Serbia and GITEX AI Belgrade Join Forces to Connect Southeast Europe with the Global Technology and Investment Economy

President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) Marko Čadež said in Brussels, at the European Family Business Forum, that Serbia is ready for a new generation of investors – family-owned companies looking for a stable and predictable business environment and a home for the next 30 years, while Serbia’s task is to remain stable, predictable and open for business.
The European Family Business Forum, attended by European Commissioners for the Economy, Trade and Climate, as well as representatives of more than 100 family-owned companies, is discussing what family businesses need for long-term investment in Europe.
“For Serbia, this is a crucial question. A large share of European investors in Serbia are family-owned companies, including Drexel, Marae, Brose and Knauf. They do not think in terms of quarters, but in terms of generations. That is why they do not ask how much the subsidy is, but whether Serbia will remain predictable ten years from now,” Čadež said.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/IMG-20260930-WA00001_960x720.jpg" id="image-tag-1790768304985" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2428"></div>
He stressed that, in recent years, Serbia has built an economic environment based on continuity in economic policy and stable public finances.
“Corporate income tax has remained unchanged since 2013. Public finances are stable. Since May, we have had dual education based on the German model, as well as the European SEPA payment system. We have free trade agreements with many countries, including the European Union,” the CCIS President said.
According to him, long-term investment decisions are based above all on trust and predictability.
“Everything that has been built has been built on the fact that economic policy has not changed every year. Trust takes ten years to build, but it can be lost in just a few months,” Čadež said, adding that Serbia is ready for a new generation of investors.

Čadež: Serbia Is Ready for a New Generation of Investors, Serbia Remains Stable

President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) Marko Čadež, who participated in the annual meeting of the Schwarz Group, owner of Lidl, in Brussels, said that investors today, more than ever, are looking for stability, predictability and reliable partnerships.
“There are 300 people here from European institutions and the business community, including the European Commissioner for the Economy, and the topic is Europe and reliable partnerships. What every investor tells me here is that investors do not choose sides – investors choose stability,” Čadež said.
As an example of the importance of a reliable partnership, he cited Lidl’s operations in Serbia.
“Lidl has been present in Serbia since 2018. It has invested more than half a billion euros, opened 87 stores and two logistics centres, and employs more than 3,500 people. But what is less visible is that behind an investor like this stands an entire chain of our small and medium-sized enterprises. More than 600 products from Serbian producers are on Lidl’s shelves, and Serbian food reaches markets across Europe through its network,” Čadež said.
According to him, such partnerships demonstrate that the impact of a single investment extends far beyond the company making the investment.
“Lidl is not an exception. Germany is one of our most important trading partners. We have more than 10 billion euros in trade, more than 900 German companies operating in Serbia and around 80,000 jobs. None of this happened by chance. It is the result of years of stability, growth and consistent economic policy,” the CCIS President stressed.
Čadež emphasized that investors are not asking Serbia to choose between partners, but rather to provide conditions in which they can plan for the long term and develop their businesses.
“No one asks me what we will offer them. They ask me whether Serbia will remain predictable, because the cost of instability is not paid by Brussels or Berlin, but by a worker in Lapovo, a raspberry producer in Arilje, or a winemaker from Fruška Gora who was counting on a contract,” Čadež said.
“My job is to ensure that Serbia remains a country people come to, stay in and expand their businesses in. To ensure that people keep their jobs, that their wages continue to grow and that investments keep coming. Stability, growth and European partnerships – that is the path we need to continue on,” Čadež concluded.
During the meeting, Čadež spoke with Gerd Chrzanowski, CEO of the Schwarz Group, owner of Lidl, about the company’s operations and investments in Serbia.

Čadež in Brussels: Investors Do Not Choose Sides, They Choose Stability

Nine Serbian companies are showcasing their products at the leading international food industry trade fair in the Arab world, the Saudi Food Show, taking place from 27 to 29 September in Jeddah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s leading business, trade and logistics hub.&nbsp;
The participation of Serbian companies is organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and the Development Agency of Serbia as part of Serbia’s national pavilion.
The participating companies are: ITN Group, Belgrade; Master Food, Užice; Master Fruits, Belgrade; Laki, Arilje; Agr anela, Valjevo; Agropartner, Lučani; Mirax Agrar, Belgrade; Baby Food Factory, Dobanovci; and Smiljanić Komerc, Požega.
The companies are presenting a broad range of products from Serbia’s food industry, including frozen, fresh and organic fruit, primarily apples; organic jams with reduced or no added sugar; juices; freeze-dried, dried and chocolate-covered fruit; fruit porridges and purées; as well as nutritious food products for children and adults, said Zorana Delić of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Sajam Saudijska Arabija (9)_634x312.jfif" id="image-tag-1790580873820" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2425"></div>
This year’s Saudi Food Show is being held for the first time at the renowned Jeddah Superdome, alongside the Saudi Manufacturing exhibition, giving visitors an opportunity to gain insight into the entire food production chain, from raw materials and finished products to processing and packaging technologies.
More than 1,000 exhibitors from 95 countries are taking part in the fair, with around 25,000 trade visitors, buyers, importers and distributors expected. In addition to Serbia, national pavilions feature companies from a large number of countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and other parts of the world.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Sajam Saudijska Arabija (7)_634x312.jfif" id="image-tag-1790580884462" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2424"></div>
Across nine sector-specific areas, producers of dairy products, oils, grains, fruit and vegetables, meat and meat products, frozen and ready-made foods, coffee and tea will showcase their products, with a focus on the latest trends and technologies in the food industry.
Throughout the three-day event, leading food industry brands, new trends and technologies in the food sector will be presented.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Sajam Saudijska Arabija (4)_634x312.jfif" id="image-tag-1790580898279" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2422"></div>
Located on the Arabian Peninsula, Jeddah is ideally positioned for the development of business projects thanks to its strategic location, trade infrastructure and diversified economic sectors. Approximately 75 percent of Saudi Arabia’s maritime trade is conducted through Jeddah, which is also located at the heart of the world’s largest food cluster, connecting companies across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe.
Photo: Zorana Delić, Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia&nbsp;

 Serbian Companies at the Saudi Food Show in Jeddah

The Carpathian Economic Forum, the central economic event held as part of the inaugural Carpathian Eight (C8) Summit, opened this evening in Bukovel, Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who officially opened the Forum, also visited the Serbian pavilion.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/PHOTO-2026-09-18-19-16-34.jpg" id="image-tag-1789759632201" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2420"></div>
Serbia is represented at the pavilion by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), the Development Agency of Serbia, Expo 2027 Belgrade, as well as Serbian companies, including Mind Park and Millennium Team.
 <div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/PHOTO-2026-09-18-18-41-07.jpg" id="image-tag-1789759671999" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2421"></div>
Participation in the Forum provides an opportunity to showcase Serbia’s economic potential, connect Serbian companies with partners from the region, and create new opportunities for business and investment cooperation.
 
The Forum brings together representatives of governments, the business community, investors, financial institutions and development partners from the Carpathian region and the European Union, with the aim of strengthening regional economic cooperation and creating concrete business and investment opportunities.
 
Taking place on 18 and 19 September, the Forum focuses on opportunities to advance regional economic cooperation, investment, and specific business and project opportunities, with particular emphasis on energy, industry and manufacturing, transport and logistics, as well as tourism and the development of natural capital. The programme also includes presentations of investment projects and opportunities for establishing new partnerships between companies and investors from participating countries.
 <div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Tan2026-09-1812280248_7.jpg" id="image-tag-1789759697038" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2416"></div>
At the inaugural Carpathian Eight Summit, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić highlighted the importance of cooperation among countries in the region, noting that the Carpathian Initiative represents an opportunity for Serbia to open new avenues of connectivity with countries in this part of Europe. He stressed that energy, roads, railways and other infrastructure projects are of major importance to all countries in the region, and noted that trade between Serbia and Ukraine has increased by 42 percent.
 
The Summit brings together Serbia, Ukraine, Romania, Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary, with the participation of European Union institutions.
 
The Carpathian Eight is a new regional format aimed at strengthening cooperation in the fields of economic development, energy, infrastructure, logistics, investment and cross-border cooperation.
 
Serbia’s strategic position further contributes to connecting the Carpathian and Danube regions, as the country is naturally linked to the countries of this part of Europe through trade, transport, logistics and energy flows. Thanks to its position on the Danube, Serbia can serve as an important link between the Western Balkans and the markets of Central and Eastern Europe. Significant potential also lies in improving transport connectivity, strengthening links between companies, and developing joint business projects.

CCIS at the Carpathian Economic Forum in Bukovel, Zelenskyy Visits Serbian Pavilion

Economic cooperation between Serbia and Austria continues to follow a positive trend, with trade between the two countries expected to reach a record level this year, while Austrian companies continue to show strong interest in investing and doing business in Serbia. This was highlighted at today’s meeting between Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), and Enno Drofenik, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to Serbia.
The meeting focused on further advancing economic cooperation between the two countries, supporting the business community, attracting new investments and creating opportunities for stronger business ties. Particular attention was paid to the continued interest of Austrian companies in Serbia, as demonstrated by recent acquisitions, as well as new investments and acquisitions currently in preparation. The continued presence and new investments by Austrian companies were described as an important indicator of confidence in the Serbian economy and its development potential, it was said at the meeting between Čadež and Drofenik.
 
Čadež thanked Austria for its support for numerous programmes contributing to the development of the Serbian economy, particularly in the areas of dual education and skills development, as well as for cooperation aimed at strengthening the alignment between the education system and the needs of the economy.
 
Transport connectivity and current challenges in cross-border transport, which directly affect companies’ operations and the flow of goods, were also among the topics discussed. The importance of continuing the dialogue between Serbia, Austria and European institutions was emphasised, with a view to finding effective solutions and improving conditions for transport and trade. In this context, the role of European Commissioner Magnus Brunner in addressing and resolving issues of importance for the unhindered movement of people and goods, as well as in continuing dialogue with European institutions, was particularly highlighted.
 
The meeting also covered EXPO 2027 Belgrade and Austria’s participation in the event, which represents an additional opportunity to strengthen economic relations, connect the two business communities and create new opportunities for cooperation.
 
Other topics included Serbia’s European integration, the importance of further integrating the Serbian economy into European value chains, and opportunities to further strengthen Austria’s role as one of Serbia’s important economic partners.
 
The interlocutors agreed on the importance of maintaining regular dialogue and intensifying cooperation between the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, the Embassy of Austria and the business communities of the two countries, including the organisation of new business forums, B2B meetings and joint initiatives.
 
The President of the CCIS wished Ambassador Drofenik a successful term in office and expressed the Chamber’s readiness to continue serving as a reliable partner in further strengthening economic relations between Serbia and Austria.
 
The meeting was attended by Andreas Heidenthaler, Head of the Economic Section of the Embassy of Austria, and Nada Knežević, Adviser to the President of the CCIS.
 
Photo: Ivana Vukotić/CCIS

Record Trade Exchange and New Austrian Investments in Serbia

The Chamber of
Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) today signed an agreement on its
participation in the specialised Expo 2027 Belgrade, creating the conditions
for stronger involvement of the Serbian business community and for concrete
business activities as part of the specialised exhibition.
The agreement
was signed at the Playground venue at the Belgrade Fair by CCIS President Marko
Čadež and Danilo Jerinić, Director of Expo 2027 d.o.o. Beograd. They announced
the official launch of a business platform designed for all companies wishing
to present themselves as part of the specialised exhibition and connect with
international partners.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Tan2026-09-1610521832_6.jpg" id="image-tag-1789556942570" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2411"></div>
The platform is
available through the Expo website, enabling Serbian entrepreneurs and
companies to register and present their products, services, experience and
capacities in one place. International participants will be able to browse
their offers and contact companies that match their needs.
Čadež and
Jerinić also announced the organisation of a Business Caravan, which will visit
municipalities and cities across Serbia. Through direct meetings with
businesses, the initiative will present the business opportunities offered by
Expo 2027 and ways in which companies can get involved.
“The
partnership between Expo 2027 and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of
Serbia did not begin today. It began on the day we started working to bring
Expo to Belgrade. We have already spent several years working together,
thinking ahead and defining what we want to achieve through Expo and what
Serbia can gain from it. This partnership can be summed up in three words:
opportunity, partnership and growth,” said Čadež.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Tan2026-09-1610520250_3.jpg" id="image-tag-1789556953809" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2414"></div>
“As the Chamber
of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, it is important for us to send every
business a clear message, both today and through this partnership, about what
needs to be done ahead of Expo: to clearly define what they want to present to
the world and to prepare well for meetings with global companies,” the CCIS
President added. He stressed that companies should identify the markets and
partners they are interested in, while connecting them with potential partners
is a task for the CCIS.
He pointed out
that the greatest business opportunity Expo brings to Serbia is the possibility
of achieving a “quantum leap” in just three months &mdash; something that would
otherwise take years, if not decades. Čadež noted that, in addition to GITEX,
the world’s largest technology trade show, which will hold its Belgrade edition
as part of Expo 2027, Serbia will also bring other leading international trade
fairs and business events to Belgrade.
As part of Expo
2027, CCIS will have its own pavilion, which, according to Čadež, will serve as
one of the key centres for presenting the Serbian economy and connecting
domestic companies with international partners.
Ahead of the
signing ceremony, Čadež also held an online meeting with Saul Singer, co-author
of the book Start-Up Nation and one of the world’s best-known authors
and experts on innovation, entrepreneurship and the development of startup
ecosystems. The discussion focused on the potential of Expo 2027 to connect
Serbian companies, startups and innovators with the global business and
investment ecosystem, as well as on how Serbia can use the event to strengthen
the international positioning of its business community.Following the
signing ceremony, Danilo Jerinić, Director of Expo 2027 d.o.o. Beograd, said
that the business programme for Expo 2027 will include six thematic business
forums and a two-day Global Business and Technology Summit, as well as more
than 250 bilateral business events, more than 900 delegation visits and more
than 50,000 business meetings.
“The value of this
programme will also be reflected in what follows: new contracts, supplier
partnerships, investments and joint projects,” said Jerinić.
He particularly
highlighted the arrival of GITEX, noting that the event will further expand
opportunities for Serbian technology companies and startups to meet
international business partners and investors.
The specialised
Expo 2027 Belgrade, under the theme “Play for Humanity – Sport and Music for
All”, will take place in Belgrade from 15 May to 15 August 2027. More than 140
countries, including the United States and Japan, have confirmed their
participation in the exhibition in Belgrade. Around four million visitors are
expected.

CCIS Signs Expo 2027 Participation Agreement: Business Platform Launched, Business Caravan to Follow

Serbia must refocus its efforts on building an artificial intelligence-powered digital economy in order to become, in the years ahead, a country that creates its own products, while positioning the Western Balkans as a region where original products are developed for the global market, said Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS).
Čadež made the remarks during the panel discussion “Building the AI Economy – Data, Infrastructure and Competitiveness”, held as part of the second edition of the BELTALKS: Belgrade Economic Talks conference in Belgrade.
 
As he pointed out, building a digital economy requires artificial intelligence (AI) to be deeply integrated and embedded in the industrial processes of domestic manufacturing companies, given Serbia’s strong industrial tradition, which forms the foundation of the country’s economy.
 
“One indicator of progress will be how many manufacturing companies use AI in their processes. For me, this is one of the most important indicators of AI adoption and, subsequently, its impact on the entire economy, because Serbia’s economy is based on industrial production,” Čadež said in response to a question about what is needed for Serbia to become a credible destination for investment in the ICT sector, further business development and the modernisation of the economy.
 
According to Čadež, another key condition for continuing to build the digital economy is sustained investment in and development of digital infrastructure, as has been the case to date through the efforts of both the public and private sectors. He added that further development of an AI-powered economy will require strengthening the energy sector by combining renewable energy sources with nuclear energy.
 
Čadež said that Serbia has been laying the foundations for AI development for a decade and announced that the national language model will be completed ahead of EXPO 2027 Belgrade, noting that Serbian large language models (LLMs), including foundational and reasoning models, are being developed in parallel within two clusters. One of these is being developed in cooperation with the European company Mistral. The goal is for domestic companies and public institutions to have access to secure, personalised models adapted to the Serbian language and the specific characteristics of the country’s administrative and legal systems.
 
He stressed that further digital development must be driven by the needs of the economy, with education, infrastructure and the business sector working together, alongside investment in computing capacity, data and infrastructure such as the State Data Centre in Kragujevac and supercomputers.
 
President of the National Assembly Ana Brnabić said that the first prerequisite for the development and application of AI in Serbia was the creation of a data foundation through the development of eGovernment. The second prerequisite, she noted, was the development of knowledge and talent, while the third was infrastructure, including data centres and supercomputers. As a result, she said, Serbia’s ICT sector has become the fastest-growing sector of the Serbian economy, and she expects ICT services exports to exceed EUR 5 billion by the end of the year.
 
Aleksandar Bogdanović, CEO and President of the Executive Board of Yettel Bank, stressed that there is no doubt that artificial intelligence is not a passing trend that will disappear. He added that colleagues from different markets had been surprised by how far Serbia has progressed in digitalisation and how well its services are organised.
 
Stefan Andonovski, Minister of Digital Transformation of the Republic of North Macedonia, said that around 40 percent of companies in the country use AI tools, but that only five percent of small and medium-sized enterprises apply genuine AI models. He warned that simply using chatbots without changing internal processes does not bring about a fundamental transformation of business operations. According to him, companies that fall behind in adopting advanced AI technologies could face serious challenges when competing with large companies introducing genuine AI agents.
 
Photo: Ivana Vukotić / CCIS

Čadež: Serbia Must Refocus on Building an AI-Powered Digital Economy

Representatives of Serbian institutions took part in the seminar “Economic Exchange in the Field of Economic Development of Serbia”, held in Beijing, which focused on the exchange of experiences in economic development, modernisation and international economic cooperation.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/EE5AB77D-C913-44D8-B49D-DAB81DC3548C.jpeg" id="image-tag-1789120120582" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2407"></div>
Organised as part of the Xi Jinping Thought on Economy Study Center, the seminar covered a range of topics, including economic and spatial planning, industrial policy, the modernisation of production, innovation, new technologies, the green transition and sustainable development. Participants also discussed opportunities to further strengthen economic cooperation between Serbia and China.
One of the key topics was the formulation and implementation of medium- and long-term development plans. The Chinese planning system, based on five-year plans, spatial planning and sector-specific strategies, was presented, with particular attention to mechanisms supporting long-term and sustainable economic development. The seminar also addressed the development of new quality productive forces, the transformation of traditional industries, the growth of emerging sectors and opportunities for industrial diversification. Particular emphasis was placed on the green transition, renewable energy, environmental protection and sustainable development. As part of the programme, Serbian participants presented the institutions they represent, with a particular focus on opportunities to further strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, technology and institutional and business-to-business partnerships. The importance of the Belt and Road Initiative in connecting the two countries and further developing China-Serbia economic relations was also highlighted. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia was represented by Marija Borota, Advisor to the President, who gave a presentation on the role and activities of the national business association in supporting the Serbian economy and strengthening international economic cooperation.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/3E45DA68-433A-4096-A41D-DA8D4947AC49.jpeg" id="image-tag-1789120151197" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2405"></div> She also highlighted the importance of EXPO 2027 Belgrade, one of the most significant international events to be hosted by Serbia. She stressed that the event represents an important opportunity to further position Serbia on the international economic map, promote the country’s business community and create new opportunities for partnerships and business contacts. The programme also included a study visit to Shanghai, focusing on examples of modern urban and spatial planning, industrial development, investment attraction and technological innovation.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/4B013CC2-2DDD-497A-9349-29683279D71F.jpeg" id="image-tag-1789120164684" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2406"></div> Particular attention was given to Shanghai’s experience in hosting EXPO 2010 and the impact of the major international event on the city’s development, modernisation, international profile and tourism appeal. During the study visit, participants visited: • Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, dedicated to urban and spatial planning; • Hongqiao Overseas Development Service Center, focused on international economic cooperation; • Planning Exhibition Center at Lingang Dishui Cloud Hall, showcasing the development and spatial planning of the Lingang area.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/EE5AB77D-C913-44D8-B49D-DAB81DC3548C2.jpeg" id="image-tag-1789120180217" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2409"></div> Shanghai was presented as an example of modern urban development, a strong industrial base, a dynamic innovation sector and effective integration of infrastructure, business and international cooperation. Shanghai’s experience is particularly relevant to Serbia’s preparations for EXPO 2027 Belgrade, as hosting an event of this scale can, beyond international promotion and the exhibition itself, provide a powerful impetus for the development of infrastructure, tourism, services and new business networks. Lectures during the seminar were delivered by experts from institutions including the National Development and Reform Commission, Xi Jinping Thought on Economy Study Center, China Macroeconomic Academy, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Peking University and Renmin University of China. The seminar provided a valuable platform for exchanging experiences, learning from China’s approach to economic and spatial development, and establishing new contacts with Chinese institutions.

Serbian Representatives in Beijing Discuss Development Policies, Modernisation and Economic Cooperation

President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, Marko Čadež, said in Istanbul that the Western Balkans is already deeply integrated into European value chains and that new EU rules must take this economic reality into account. He warned that regulatory barriers, including the 90/180 rule for professional drivers, could disrupt transport, production and supply chains across Europe.
Speaking at the meeting of Eurochambres’ affiliated members, held today in Istanbul, Čadež stressed that this is not merely an issue affecting Serbian or Western Balkan drivers.
<blockquote class="text-justify">“If transport stops, European factories and European supply chains stop as well. That is why resolving this issue is a common European economic interest. We are talking about hundreds of millions of euros worth of goods that could be blocked,” he said.</blockquote><div class="article-photo text-justify"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/3d72331b-9c02-45c1-aedb-b4e6ad348ffe_960x720.jpeg" id="image-tag-1788420921229" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2400"></div>
According to Čadež, more practical integration is essential.
<blockquote class="text-justify">“When the EU introduces new rules, from CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism), the Industrial Act, deforestation and steel regulations to public procurement, waste and packaging, it is necessary to consider how these rules affect Western Balkan companies that are already part of European value chains. If the goal is integration, regulation must not create new economic walls, because that would negatively affect both EU companies and companies from the region.” </blockquote>
He invited the presidents of the chambers of commerce to visit Belgrade and take part in EXPO 2027, and announced that a meeting of the Eurochambres Board of Directors would also be held next May during the exhibition.<div class="article-photo text-justify"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/5f13fde3-5c43-4b69-8a08-636efd335347_960x443.jpeg" id="image-tag-1788420932442" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2401"></div>
The main topics of the Istanbul meeting focused on the EU enlargement process, particularly integration into the EU Single Market, as well as the removal of various regulatory and other barriers that negatively affect European value chains. Participants exchanged views on current challenges and opportunities for business communities, as well as on the role of chambers of commerce in the European integration process, enhancing competitiveness and creating better conditions for companies to operate.
During the opening session, participants were addressed by Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, Vice-President of Eurochambres and President of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB); Vladimir Dlouhý, President of Eurochambres; and Mehmet Kemal Bozay, Ambassador, Deputy Minister and Director for EU Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, who previously served as Türkiye’s Ambassador to Serbia.
PHOTO: M. Petrović