EXPO 2027 represents a vital platform for unlocking business opportunities, connecting companies, and promoting Serbia as a business destination, it was emphasized at the preparatory meeting for EXPO 2027 – International Planning Meeting (IPM), attended by Mihailo Vesović, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS).
The key role of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia was highlighted in supporting both domestic and international companies in establishing business connections and cooperation, during the event itself, as well as in the preparatory and post-EXPO phases.
EXPO 2027 has clearly defined business objectives, including building a digital economy and accelerating innovation, enhancing digital transformation, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in the country and the region, enabling cross-border business connections, shaping an advanced society, and fostering new bilateral relations. These objectives reflect the intention for EXPO to be more than just an exhibition – to become a catalyst for long-term economic development.
Company participation is planned through specialized business events and platforms. As part of EXPO, a Global Business Summit will be organized, along with six thematic business forums and over 80 events within the business calendar. In addition, specialized business platforms will be introduced: the Business Connect Center, the EXPO 2027 B2B application, and Country Business Briefings showcasing the business environments of participating countries.
All foreign delegations visiting Serbia during EXPO 2027 will be treated as business delegations, with a focus on connecting them with local enterprises. During the exhibition, the CCIS will be open to all forms of business networking and matchmaking, with the possibility of organizing customized forums in line with the specific needs of companies. In this context, the Chamber will also leverage its regional role through cooperation with partners from the Western Balkans region (WB6 initiative).
By the time EXPO 2027 begins, WTC Belgrade will be fully operational and ready to offer opportunities for multilateral business cooperation in the field of international trade. In this way, Belgrade and Serbia will be positioned as an important hub for regional and global business collaboration.

EXPO 2027 – A Key Platform for Business Opportunities

Startup companies from Serbia that participated in the world’s largest event dedicated to startups and investors, Expand North Star, in Dubai, presented outstanding ideas and solutions across various sectors, attracting the attention of major global players in the digital industry, establishing contacts with prominent investors, and securing new business deals.
During the three-day conference, startups held over 800 meetings and discussions with potential partners, including Hazleen Ahmad, a global investor and leader in building inclusive ecosystems, as well as the UK-based BGV (Bethnal Green Ventures). Agreements were also signed with companies from India and South Korea.
Expand North Star is organized as part of the world’s largest technology fair, Gitex Global, and over 20 Serbian startups presented a wide range of innovative products from October 12 to 15 in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, healthtech, edtech, cybersecurity, mobile apps, e-commerce, climate tech, agritech, gaming, blockchain, and Web3.
“Our startup Reputeo won an award in the field of cybersecurity, Baby FM was among the top 100, and reached the semifinals of the Supernova Challenge with its real-time temperature measurement solution. Everyone who participated in North Star came with fantastic ideas and solutions, successfully presented themselves, and attracted significant attention,” said Nebojša Bjelotomić, Advisor to the President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce for Innovations and IT.

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“Here in Dubai, there are companies, businessmen, and investors from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and other parts of the world. This is a great opportunity for our IT sector to enter new markets, establish business contacts, find local representatives, present to investors, or even reach end users,” added Bjelotomić.
Representatives of startup companies were also pleased with the promotion, contacts made, and results achieved.

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Prof. Dr. Miloš Stanković from EWD Technology recalled that 12 years ago, they had the idea to develop a device that, using specific frequencies and electricity&mdash;without chemicals&mdash;destroys weeds at the root so that they no longer grow.
“Our main focus was ambrosia, although we tested over 200 types of weeds with the Swedish University of Agriculture as well as with local institutions. We wanted to solve a major social problem: ambrosia pollen, as more than two million people in our country suffer from it,” he said.
He emphasized that there was significant interest at North Star in Dubai for their invention, especially from Asian countries such as China and India, for introducing the product to their agricultural markets.
This was their first time at the Gitex fair in Dubai, and they have already signed several agreements with partners from India and South Korea for potential product distribution.
Neda Trifunović from the startup Reputeo explained that their platform is a type of search engine, like Google or GPT, focused on collecting data from open sources in the Web2 space.

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“We gather news and information from social networks, media, forums, and portals, and apply AI sentiment analysis to this data. The idea is to provide real-time insights and inform users whether the data is positive, negative, or neutral, and how it might affect their business or products. How did we come up with the idea? Essentially, through direct conversations with users in the market and validating initial pilot products,” she said.
AISA AI, the world’s first AI SOC analyst, was developed by Reputeo and was recognized as one of the winners of the prestigious CyberE71 Challenge.
Expand North Star is an event that brings together the most advanced tech startups, leading global VC funds, investors, accelerators, and representatives of major technology companies.
This year’s edition concluded on October 15, gathering over 2,000 startups from around the world, representing more than 100 countries, nearly 1,000 investors, numerous exhibitors, and speakers from all over the world.
Serbian startups showcased at this year’s event included: NJUPPA, LenaAI, Baby FM, NegotiateWind, MyFlow, TRAKEN, Codekido, PuRe AI, Kampster AI, Reputeo, Sferikon, Smartsy, Ysource Solution, SEE UP, Athena AI Search, Silver Bell Group, CarSync, SpiceAds, EWD Technology, OROOK, and AgrO3.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Тамара Папић, Baby FM.jpg" id="image-tag-1760607112768" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1854"></div>

Serbian Startups Showcase Excellent Ideas and Solutions to the World

The world’s largest technology fair, “Gitex Global”, has chosen Belgrade as the host of its first-ever event in Southeast Europe. The prestigious exhibition, titled “Gitex AI Serbia”, will take place in 2027 as part of the specialized “Expo 2027” exhibition, and GITEX events will continue to be held in Serbia in the years following the EXPO.
This decision was announced today at the opening of the 45th edition of Gitex Global in Dubai, reaffirming Serbia’s position as a growing hub for innovation and new technologies in this part of Europe. Serbia is also the partner country at this year’s Gitex Global, which brings together over 1,000 exhibitors and 200,000 visitors.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Gitex 1.jpg" id="image-tag-1760441973701" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1846"></div>
The organization of “Gitex AI Serbia” represents a historic milestone for Serbia and the Southeast European region, opening doors to international partnerships and showcasing Serbia’s and the region’s technological potential on the global stage. Belgrade is expected to become a key meeting point for world leaders in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and startup innovation.
“The launch of GITEX Serbia 2027 marks a new chapter in our global journey of expanding the GITEX experience to new innovation hubs. Serbia stands out as a dynamic bridge between East and West, and we are thrilled to bring the world’s largest showcase of technology and startups to Belgrade,” said Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of Gitex Global, following the decision to establish “Gitex AI Serbia.”<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Gitex 2.jpg" id="image-tag-1760442004349" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1847"></div>
“There are difficult paths. From the moment you see them, it’s clear how demanding and challenging every step will be. However, the reward at the end of that path is exciting, valuable, and vital. Over the past decade, Serbia has reformed its education system to meet the demands of the technological revolution. We introduced programming from the fifth grade of elementary school, tripled the number of IT professionals, and grew our IT service exports to as much as 5 billion dollars annually! Our startup ecosystem has grown by 25 percent in the last five years,” said Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, which played a crucial role in securing the organization of this event.
According to Čadež, what Serbia needs now is a platform to loudly showcase what it can do and what it strives for.
“We saw the perfect partner, but it was necessary for that partner to see us, too. The last two years of work have brought us to this moment, and today we are excited to be welcomed into the special Gitex family. None of this would have been possible without people &mdash; exceptional people &mdash; Trixie and her team,” added the CCIS President. He thanked Gitex and its leadership for recognizing Serbia and allowing it to present itself to the world. “We are determined to make the most of this opportunity, and I invite everyone to Belgrade in 2027. Every hard road is easier when you have the right people beside you &mdash; and we are lucky to have Trixie on our side,” concluded Čadež.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Gitex 3.jpg" id="image-tag-1760442022997" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1848"></div>
Mihailo Jovanović, Director of the Office for IT and eGovernment, said that today is a big day for Serbia, as the world’s largest technology fair, Gitex Global, is coming to Serbia, and Belgrade will host Gitex AI Serbia 2027 during Expo 2027. He emphasized that this will be of great importance for the Serbian economy, as the world’s leading investors will come to the country.
“Believe it or not, Gitex is coming to Serbia in 2027! Congratulations to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, to Marko Čadež, and his entire team who have worked tirelessly to bring Gitex to Belgrade. This will mean a lot for the Republic of Serbia &mdash; for our economy, for the further development of the ICT sector, and for strengthening our innovation ecosystem,” Jovanović said at the National Pavilion of Serbia at Gitex Global, which is being held from October 13 to 17.
He added that Serbia will strive to make its ICT sector the fastest-growing sector, noting that last year the domestic ICT industry achieved more than four billion euros in exports.
“Gitex Global”, held in Dubai for 45 years, is one of the largest and most influential technology events in the world, known as a key platform for connecting global tech companies, investors, and startups. “Expo 2027”, the first specialized world exhibition ever held in Southeast Europe, will take place in Belgrade from May 15 to August 15, 2027. More than four million visitors are expected to attend. “Expo 2027” is the most ambitious project in Serbia’s modern history, offering a unique opportunity for the international promotion of the country and the region.
Photo: Tanjug / Rade Prelić Video: Tanjug

The World’s Largest Technology Fair, Gitex Global, Comes to Belgrade

The world’s largest event for startups and investors, EXPAND NORTH STAR 2025, officially opened today in Dubai. The National Pavilion of Serbia, showcasing more than 20 Serbian startups, was visited by Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, son of Dubai’s ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who met with representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) and Serbian innovative companies.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/PHOTO-2025-10-12-14-22-28_960x540.jpg" id="image-tag-1760340139541" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1844"></div>
As part of this event, held under the umbrella of GITEX GLOBAL, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed, ensuring Serbia’s participation in the world-leading tech fair in 2026. The MoU was signed by Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, and Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of GITEX GLOBAL and Executive Vice President of the Dubai World Trade Centre. This partnership represents a continuation of Serbia’s strategic positioning on the global tech scene and marks a significant step forward in the internationalization of the country’s IT and innovation sectors.
During the opening day, CCIS President Marko Čadež visited Serbian startups at the national pavilion, met with founders and team members, and expressed support for their efforts to reach new markets and connect with investors.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/PHOTO-2025-10-12-13-13-59_960x540.jpg" id="image-tag-1760340156918" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1842"></div>
“Serbian startups have a lot to offer the world &mdash; knowledge, innovation, and the courage to step onto the global stage. This is a great opportunity not only to showcase their products and ideas but also to gain new partners, investors, and friends from across the globe. Our presence here is not accidental &mdash; it’s the result of continuous work on internationalization and Serbia’s recognition as a technology hub of this part of Europe,” said Čadež after touring the pavilion.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/PHOTO-2025-10-12-13-15-41_960x540.jpg" id="image-tag-1760340171684" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1843"></div>
The CCIS President also met with Mohammed Lootah, President and CEO of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, to discuss future cooperation between the two business associations.
A highlight of the very first day came with the news that Serbian startup Baby FM advanced to the semifinals of the prestigious Supernova Challenge, ranking among the top 100 startups worldwide.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/PHOTO-2025-10-12-14-36-19_960x540.jpg" id="image-tag-1760340188596" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1845"></div>
Baby FM, a member of the Serbian delegation, has developed a wearable device for continuous and real-time body temperature monitoring with predictive analytics. This clinically precise device utilizes artificial intelligence for early infection detection, supporting parents and pediatricians in making informed health decisions. Beyond pediatrics, Baby FM is expanding its innovation into the veterinary field with Pet FM &mdash; a smart wearable device for pet health monitoring, currently being tested in Serbia and California in cooperation with Rise Pet Health.
EXPAND NORTH STAR serves as a unique platform connecting startups with investors, corporate partners, and the media, offering companies the opportunity to access new markets, attract investment, and position themselves as leaders in their industries.
This year’s edition, EXPAND NORTH STAR 2025, features a broad range of innovations and technological solutions, with participating startups covering key sectors including artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, healthtech, edtech, mobile apps, e-commerce, climate tech, agritech, gaming, blockchain, and Web3.
GITEX GLOBAL 2025 officially begins tomorrow, with Serbia as the partner country.
Photo: Boban Ristić, CCIS

“EXPAND NORTH STAR 2025” Kicks Off in Dubai – Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed Al Maktoum Visits the Serbia Pavilion

The use of renewable hydrogen and the constant search for new energy sources are key for all European countries seeking to achieve climate neutrality goals by 2050. “We must learn from each other and share experiences in the application of H₂ to make implementation more successful, faster, and more cost-efficient,” emphasized representatives of the partners in the INTERREG project PRHyUS during a three-day study visit to Krakow.
The first results and objectives of the PRHyUS project, dedicated to promoting the use of renewable hydrogen for a more sustainable and greener Europe, were presented at a transregional press conference. The Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry participates in the project as part of an international consortium, together with partners from Italy, Germany, Poland, France, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Romania. The conference, held as a panel discussion, was part of the visit program to Poland from October 7–9, alongside an expert exchange, an interregional workshop, and a visit to the hydrogen district.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/IMG_8638_960x720.jpeg" id="image-tag-1759998852537" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1836"></div>
Polish hydrogen expert Pawel Brusilo presented practical examples of renewable hydrogen use, emphasizing local action as a response to global challenges.
“Several municipalities in Poland are using green hydrogen buses, which means that the public transport sector no longer emits harmful gases,” Brusilo said.
Another example, he noted, is PROMET PLAST, a small Polish polymer manufacturer that, with EU funding, initially installed a small electrolyzer for renewable hydrogen production, later increased its capacity, and today sells its surplus production.
“Hydrogen is not a universal solution &mdash; it is a tool that enables us to decarbonize sectors that are hardest to electrify. Within PRHyUS, we translate Europe’s ambitions into regional corridors, contracts, and revenues, so that by 2030 we can establish real, functional, and economically sustainable hydrogen ecosystems,” Brusilo emphasized.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/IMG_7909_960x720.jpeg" id="image-tag-1759998862769" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1835"></div>
Mihai Juga, from the Regional Development Agency Centru in Romania, highlighted the project’s role in attracting investments in Mureș County aimed at using renewable hydrogen in Azomureș, Romania’s largest fertilizer producer.
He also pointed out challenges in using green hydrogen, such as the high and complex costs of integrating new equipment, the underdevelopment of certain technologies, and the lack of a strong legal framework.
Camilla Gusperti from the Eni Enrico Mattei Foundation said it is crucial to accelerate the use of renewable hydrogen as an energy source, especially in energy-intensive sectors that remain heavily dependent on fossil fuels.
“Green hydrogen is an excellent solution for hard-to-decarbonize sectors such as industry, maritime, and air transport,” she said, stressing the role of PRHyUS in conducting cost-benefit analyses to assess environmental, social, and economic impacts and to identify barriers and opportunities for industrial application.
Project partners also visited Rybnik, known as Poland’s hydrogen district, where local government, academia, and companies successfully cooperate in implementing hydrogen technologies. Rybnik hosts the second-largest hydrogen refueling station in Europe and operates a fleet that will exceed 20 hydrogen-powered buses by the end of next year. Refueling such a bus takes only 15–20 minutes, which is an advantage over electric vehicles, though the cost remains high at about €11 per kilogram of H₂, as noted during the presentation.
In addition, the new Renewable Energy Center at the Silesian University of Technology and its laboratory for testing electrolyzers and prototype hydrogen systems demonstrate how renewable hydrogen is transforming local economies and building regional expertise.
The PRHyUS project, with a budget of €1.85 million, will run for the next four years, aiming to contribute to energy security and the reduction of dependence on fossil fuels.
Photo: PRHyUS team

The Use of Renewable Hydrogen in Europe Drives Technological Development in Serbia

The world’s largest food industry fair, ANUGA 2025, has officially opened in Cologne, with Serbia participating with a record 42 companies, exhibited across two national pavilions in halls dedicated to finished and frozen products.
The participation of Serbian companies at this prestigious global event is traditionally organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) and the Development Agency of Serbia (RAS), which, for years, have been supporting the internationalization of domestic companies and helping them access demanding and highly competitive global markets.
At the national pavilion in the Finished Products Hall, from October 4–8, 24 Serbian companies are presenting their products: AGRANELA (Valjevo), BENLIAN FOODS (Niš), BUDIMKA (Požega), CMANA (Krnjevo), CANDY RUSH (Belgrade), CALIBRO (Topola), ES KOMERC (Prijepolje), FIDELINKA SKROB (Subotica), FRUTORGA (Prokuplje), INTERFOOD 60 (Čačak), MEDOMIX (Petrovaradin), MIN COMMERCE (Belgrade), MITSIDES POINT (Sremska Mitrovica), MIX TRADE (Kulpin), MORAVKA PRO (Leskovac), MTM SIRELA (Preljina), MINELA (Batočina), NS BOMI (Obrenovac), PIP NOVI SAD (Novi Sad), SWEET FIT (Belgrade), TARTUFI SR (Belgrade), TISACOOP (Kanjiža), YUMIS (Niš) and ZDRAVO ORGANIC (Selenča).
These companies are showcasing a wide range of products, including: honey and honey-based dietary products, 100% natural fruit and vegetable juices, jams (including organic and sugar-free varieties), organic pasta, pickled vegetables, ajvar, dried fruits and mushrooms, fruit concentrates and purées, confectionery, fruit-filled strudels, tea biscuits, chocolate-coated fruits, oatmeal, chocolates, hazelnut and pistachio spreads, fruit desserts and drinks for children, protein porridges and spreads, as well as truffle-based products.
In the Frozen Food Hall, 18 companies are representing Serbia: AGROPARTNER (Lučani), COJA PROMET (Žitkovac), DON DON (Belgrade), ITN GROUP (Zemun), MASTER FRUIT (Belgrade), FRIGLO (Sutjeska), FRIGO-PAUN (Požega), FRUCOM FOOD (Arilje), HOMEMADE COMPANY (Belgrade), INNOVEAT (Novi Sad), COLD STORAGE PANTELIĆ (Kraljevo), LAKI (Arilje), SWEET HOUSE EXCLUSIVE (Sopot), DBA PROMET (Arilje), MAMBIKOM AGRAR (Belgrade), STAMEVSKI (Stara Pazova), JUGOTRADE (Arilje) and SICOBERRY (Kraljevo). Their product range includes frozen fruits and vegetables, fruit purées and toppings, as well as frozen cakes and pastries.
The goal of Serbia’s participation is to promote and further strengthen exports of the Serbian food industry to the German and EU markets, recognizing ANUGA’s significance as the world’s leading trade fair in this field. At the same time, the fair provides an opportunity for domestic companies to gain insights into the latest industry trends, technologies, buyers, suppliers, and to evaluate their competitive position on the global market.
During the five-day fair, Serbian exhibitors will hold numerous meetings with potential buyers, distributors, and partners, further solidifying Serbia's position as a serious player on the global food market. A large number of business contacts, preliminary agreements, and new export initiatives are expected to result from the event.
The fair takes place at the Koelnmesse GmbH exhibition complex, spanning over 284,000 square meters. Organized biennially, ANUGA serves as the central meeting point for all global food industry stakeholders. It features ten thematic segments, each dedicated to specific product categories – from finished products, dairy, and frozen foods, to meat products, organics, beverages, bakery goods, hot drinks, and alternative foods.
ANUGA 2025 also hosts a number of conferences and side events. A particular highlight this year is the “Anuga Taste Innovation Show”, presenting the most innovative products in the food industry with an emphasis on sustainability, nutritional value, and creativity in product development. Key trends in focus include sugar reduction, avoidance of artificial ingredients, alternative proteins (from algae, insects, and fungi), superfoods, gluten-free products, and the revival of ancient grains.
This year’s fair also places a special emphasis on KOSHER and HALAL products, responding to the growing demand in both Eastern and Western Europe. Companies holding these certifications enjoy an advantage in positioning and entering new markets. For the first time, a specialized Halal Conference will be organized within the fair.
The official partner country of ANUGA 2025 is Korea, highlighting the global rise of K-Food and its growing influence on the international culinary scene, fueled by the worldwide popularity of Korean culture and K-pop. 
For information on the upcoming and past fairs as well as the catalog of exhibitors, please follow <a href="http://fairs.pks.rs">fairs.pks.rs</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;
 
Photo: Jovanka Ćalina

Serbian Companies had Record Participation at the World’s Largest Food Industry Fair – ANUGA 2025

The Serbian Franchise Association (SFA) has officially become a member of the European Franchise Federation (EFF), providing Serbia with a direct connection to the leading European institution in the franchise sector. This membership represents a major step towards raising standards, greater professionalization, and the internationalization of the Serbian franchise market.
To mark this milestone, all interested stakeholders will have the opportunity to connect with domestic and international brands at the upcoming International Franchise Conference, to be held on December 2, 2025, at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS). Through a series of educational panels, exchange of expertise and best practices on franchising in Serbia, the region, and the EU, participants will also be able to explore business opportunities directly in the exhibition segment.
The CCIS and the SFA closely cooperated in the accession process to the European Franchise Federation. The support of CCIS was crucial in affirming the importance of this membership for Serbian business, as it opens opportunities for the internationalization of domestic brands, greater promotion of Serbian franchises on the European market, and the implementation of the highest standards of ethical business. With this step, CCIS and SFA further strengthen institutional cooperation and create a more stable framework for the development of the franchise sector in Serbia.
“Joining the European Franchise Federation is a major leap forward for Serbia and proof that our market is moving in line with international standards. This is an opportunity for Serbian brands to gain a stronger voice in Europe and for businesses to more easily find partners and expand across borders. Membership in the EFF positions Serbia as an equal participant in the European franchise community and opens new doors for the development of our economy through the franchise business model,” said Marica Vidanović, Head of the CCIS Franchise Center.
“SFA’s membership in the European Franchise Federation is not just a symbolic success but a concrete step forward&mdash;for standards, for trust, for competitiveness. For Serbian entrepreneurs looking to expand their brand, operate transparently, and attract investment, this membership brings a new dimension of opportunities,” emphasized Tanja Petković, Chairwoman of the SFA Board of Directors.
With this membership, Serbia becomes part of the European franchise community, bringing numerous concrete benefits to domestic businesses and entrepreneurs. EFF membership adds credibility and trust, as the SFA and its members commit to respecting and implementing the European Code of Ethics for Franchising. This ensures more transparent and fair relations between franchisors and franchisees, adherence to best practices, and clearly defined rights and obligations in contracts&mdash;especially important given that franchising in Serbia is not yet legally regulated.
Membership also provides access to the European knowledge network, exchange of experiences with leading European franchise systems, and support in improving operations and education. Serbian franchise brands will gain new opportunities to enter the European market, connect with potential franchisees and foreign investors. In addition, through active participation in the European Franchise Federation, Serbia will be able to follow and apply the highest standards and recommendations shaping franchise practices in Europe, contributing to the creation of a safer and more stable business environment in the country.
The European Franchise Federation (EFF) was established in 1972, with headquarters in Brussels, and today brings together national franchise associations from 22 European countries. As the umbrella organization, EFF serves as the central body for regulation, promotion, and protection of the interests of the franchise sector, develops standards, and enhances business ethics through the European Code of Ethics for Franchising.

 Serbia Becomes a Member of the European Franchise Federation

The meeting of the Central European Initiative, to be held today on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, is of exceptional importance, particularly in light of an initiative vital for the entire region&mdash;the modernization of the railway line between Trieste and Belgrade, as well as the railway border crossing between Serbia and Croatia&mdash;said Marko Čadež, the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, ahead of the meeting in New York.
Čadež, who is in New York as part of the Serbian delegation, recalled that the initiative to modernize this railway corridor was launched precisely by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and the Croatian Chamber of Economy, later joined by the Adriatic–Ionian Initiative, which highlights the significance of this undertaking for all the countries of the region, from Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, to Serbia.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/IMG_9561_960x1280.jpg" id="image-tag-1759143060978" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1830"></div>
“We want to try to revive this route and accelerate the process, because it is important for all of us. The economies of Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy depend on it,” said Čadež, emphasizing that a large share of Serbia’s exports and imports go through the ports of Rijeka and Koper, which lie on this route.
Therefore, the meeting presents a valuable opportunity to revisit this project with representatives from all countries involved in the initiative and emphasize the importance of its realization.
Čadež also announced that he would invite CEI member states to attend the upcoming “Wine Vision” fair, where a meeting dedicated to the modernization of the Belgrade–Trieste railway will also be held.
In New York, Čadež attended an informal reception hosted by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Đurić to mark the anniversary of the founding of the Non-Aligned Movement.
“The reception was attended by representatives of numerous countries, some with which we already have strong economic relations, as well as others with which we are arranging much more intensive business delegation visits. I am primarily referring to North African and sub-Saharan African states. It was important to have the opportunity, in one place, to meet the leaders of those countries and discuss what lies ahead,” said Čadež.
He emphasized that it is rare, even in more developed economies, for representatives of the business community to be included in their country's delegations during UN General Assembly sessions.
Čadež thanked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Minister Marko Đurić for enabling him, as President of the CCIS, to participate in these meetings and discuss concrete business opportunities for the third year in a row.
“It was very important that we had talks with numerous delegations attending the UN General Assembly,” Čadež underlined, noting that in recent days he had taken part in a series of bilateral meetings of the Serbian delegation in New York.

Čadež: In New York on Railway Modernization Between Trieste and Belgrade

The upcoming negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement between Serbia and Georgia represent a major opportunity to enhance economic cooperation and jointly enter the Chinese market, said Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, who is in New York as part of Serbia’s delegation to the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
At a meeting with Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Đurić and Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Bochorishvili, Čadež emphasized the need to inject additional momentum into the process so that the free trade negotiations can be concluded as soon as possible to the benefit of both sides.
He recalled that, in addition to its agreement with the European Union, Serbia also has a Free Trade Agreement with China, which provides a significant comparative advantage over other countries and an important basis for further developing economic cooperation.
“This gives us the chance, since we are individually small, to work together to expand our capacities and establish joint production facilities, so that we can export to large markets such as China,” Čadež stressed.
He added that there is particular potential for strengthening cooperation between Serbia and Georgia in agriculture, including seed production and other crops, as well as in the dietary supplements industry and pet food production. He noted that a coordinated approach could ensure far greater success and penetration into the Chinese market than individual efforts.
The meeting with the Georgian Foreign Minister is one in a series of encounters that the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia will have in New York. These discussions aim to highlight the significant growth achieved by the Serbian economy in recent years and to present the favorable investment climate, as confirmed by the high level of foreign direct investment in the past period.
PHOTO/VIDEO: Zoran Mirković

Čadež: Serbia and Georgia Together on the Chinese Market

A meeting on enhancing economic and trade cooperation between Serbia and China (Shanghai) was held on September 17, 2025, at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, on the occasion of a visit by a business delegation from Shanghai. The meeting was attended by 16 companies, and two important Memoranda of Understanding were signed – between the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce, as well as between the Development Agency of Serbia and the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce.
The delegation included representatives of the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce (CCPIT-CCOIC Shanghai) and seven Chinese companies operating in the fields of the metal industry, information technologies, green industry, and services. The delegation was led by Mr. Yang Dongsheng, Vice Chairman of the Shanghai Council for the Promotion of International Trade and President of the Shanghai International Chamber of Commerce.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/01 gIMG_9578_960x734.jpg" id="image-tag-1758547007449" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1825"></div>
During the meeting, two important Memoranda of Understanding were signed – between the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce, as well as between the Development Agency of Serbia and the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce. These documents represent a new incentive for strengthening institutional cooperation and will enable future collaboration in trade to increasingly focus on innovation, high technology, science, and research and development projects, as well as on a stronger presence of Chinese investors in Serbia.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/03 r mou IMG-20250917-WA0006_960x720.jpg" id="image-tag-1758547095031" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1827"></div><div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/02 p mou IMG_9614_960x720.jpg" id="image-tag-1758547075782" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1826"></div>
The meeting was attended by nine Serbian companies that presented their capabilities and interest in cooperation with Chinese partners. As part of the visit, the Chinese delegation also toured the Belgrade Science and Technology Park, where they had the opportunity to learn about the development of Serbia’s IT sector and startup ecosystem.
Cooperation between Serbia and Shanghai has a long tradition. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and the Development Agency of Serbia regularly organize the participation of Serbian companies at prestigious events in this city, such as the China International Import Expo (CIIE) and the Prowine Shanghai fair, where Serbian companies will again present their products this November. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia also has its own representative office in the People’s Republic of China, based in Shanghai, which further facilitates continuous cooperation and communication with Chinese partners.
The symbolic strength of these relations is also reflected in the twinning agreement between the cities of Belgrade and Shanghai, as well as in the fact that Shanghai hosted the World Expo in 2010, while Belgrade will host the Specialized World Expo in 2027 under the slogan “Play for Humanity – Sport and Music for All.” These events further connect the two cities and herald new chapters in cooperation.

Opportunities for Stronger Ties with Shanghai’s Economy

Serbia and Bahrain have significant potential to enhance economic cooperation in the sectors of energy and infrastructure, IT, food industry, automotive and chemical industries, construction, financial services, transport, and logistics – it was concluded today at a business meeting of representatives of more than 25 companies from both countries, held at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia. Key topics included investment cooperation, partnership development, joint appearances in third markets, as well as knowledge exchange and education.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/9-DSCF6842_960x640.jpg" id="image-tag-1758197695064" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1820"></div>
“Serbia’s economy is competitive, stable, and open to cooperation. We see Bahrain as a partner with whom we can develop long-term and mutually beneficial relations,” said Mihailo Vesović, Deputy President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, highlighting the important role of the Chamber in supporting Serbian companies in international markets.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/6-DSCF6854_960x639.jpg" id="image-tag-1758197705051" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1819"></div>
The Bahraini delegation, led by the Second Vice Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce, Mohamed Abduljabbar Alkooheji, expressed satisfaction with the organization of the meeting and stressed the importance of direct contacts between businesspeople to reach agreements on concrete business opportunities.
Both sides agreed that there is considerable room for cooperation across various industries and expressed confidence that the visit to Belgrade would lead to concrete projects and business deals. Frequent visits and exchanges of business delegations are key to building trust and new business relations, emphasized Alkooheji.
Special focus was also placed on cooperation in education, knowledge exchange, and student internships as investments in human capital that can contribute to sustainable cooperation in the future.
Following the presentations, Serbian and Bahraini business representatives had the opportunity to hold direct B2B talks, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for joint projects. These discussions will continue and intensify during tomorrow’s Serbia–Bahrain Business Forum, which will gather an even greater number of companies and institutional representatives from both countries.
Although territorially the smallest state in the region, the Kingdom of Bahrain is considered one of the most open and economically diversified countries within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Thanks to early liberalization and an open-door policy toward foreign investment, Bahrain has built a modern economy with strong sectors in finance, logistics, information technology, and aluminum processing. These reforms are rooted in the strategic document Bahrain Vision 2030, which aims to transition to a sustainable and productive economy led by the private sector.
Photo: Nikola Djordjević, CCIS

Serbian and Bahraini Businesses Strengthen Ties

President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) Marko Čadež stated today in Tokyo that Japan’s trade strategy is becoming increasingly oriented toward the European market and that Serbia holds an ideal position for joint projects. He noted that Japanese companies are showing growing interest in cooperation in green technologies, as well as in the chemical and textile industries.
As a member of the state-business delegation of Serbia, led by President Aleksandar Vučić, Čadež said after a meeting with representatives of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) in Tokyo that Serbia has excellent cooperation with the association, especially in the past year, and that talks on opening a JETRO office in Serbia are moving in a positive direction.
“What is most needed now is to establish a Serbian-Japanese operational working group, that is, a joint integrated team that will work daily on projects and on coordinating what companies have discussed. We have a strong interest in green technology, not only in public-private partnerships, but also because our industries and companies must adopt different standards to access markets. In this respect, Japanese technology is extremely important,” Čadež told Tanjug.
He added that discussions also covered the production of crystalline phosphoric acid, which is used in the food industry and is part of the production of Elixir and the Industrial Chemical Park in Prahovo.
Minister of Domestic and Foreign Trade Jagoda Lazarević emphasized that JETRO is expected to reopen its office in Serbia and recalled that more than 75 Japanese companies visited Serbia last October. She stressed the importance of attracting new Japanese investors and pointed out that JETRO plays a key role in this process.
JETRO is an independent administrative institution affiliated with the Government of Japan, working to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world.
It also provides information and support to foreign companies seeking to enter and expand into the Japanese market. JETRO plays a highly active and strategic role in strengthening economic cooperation between Serbia and Japan, with initiatives including the promotion of Serbia as an investment destination, organization of business events, and exchanges between government and business circles.

Čadež: Japan Increasingly Focused on the European Market, Serbia Ideal for Joint Projects

Strengthening cooperation, networking, and exchange of experiences in the IT and gaming industry between Serbian and Korean companies will be the focus of future collaboration between the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) and the Busan IT Promotion Agency (BIPA), it was highlighted at the meeting of CCIS representatives with Kim Tae-yol, Director General of BIPA.
The meeting took place at Ložionica, the first international-standard center for creative industries and innovation in Serbia, as part of the event “Creative Bridge: Korea & Serbia – Connecting Worlds.” The event brought together leading IT and gaming companies from Busan and promising players from Serbia’s tech scene.
On behalf of CCIS, the BIPA delegation was welcomed by Đorđe Živanović, Advisor to the President of CCIS, and Nebojša Bjelotomić, digitalization expert. The importance of the Korean experience in developing IT and gaming technologies was particularly emphasized, as it can serve as a strong incentive for the further growth of Serbia’s digital ecosystem.
Creative Bridge: Korea & Serbia – Connecting Worlds, aimed at connecting industries of Serbia and Korea, gathered top IT and gaming companies from Busan and the most promising representatives of Serbia’s IT and gaming sector. The event is the result of cooperation between the national platform Serbia Creates and the Busan IT Promotion Agency (BIPA), initiated in 2024 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Serbia’s national platform for creative industries, Serbia Creates, and BIPA.