New Opportunities for Cooperation with Israel in the Metal Industry Sector

The Serbian Chamber of Commerce hosted a professional seminar entitled “Israel’s Metal Industry – Opportunities and Prospects for Cooperation”, dedicated to presenting the potential of the Israeli metal and machinery markets, the business environment, and opportunities to establish and strengthen cooperation between Serbian and Israeli companies.

Đorđe Živanović, Advisor to the President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the importance of familiarizing domestic businesses with the characteristics and needs of the Israeli market, as well as with opportunities to develop business ties in the metal and machinery industries.

Esther Grimberg, Head of the Construction Department at the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce, presented prospects for cooperation, noting that Israel relies heavily on imports of construction materials and equipment. Market demand is particularly strong in residential construction and infrastructure development. She also pointed out that access to the Israeli market depends on compliance with applicable product standards, certification requirements, and conditions governing product use. She particularly emphasized the role of the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce in connecting companies and addressing common trade barriers.

Idan Shirazi, Director for Europe and the Middle East at the International Relations and Business Information Department of the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce, highlighted the importance of cooperation between the two national chambers of commerce and the mechanisms available to promote business opportunities.

David Zeltser, Managing Director of D.A.N. Steel Trading Ltd, also spoke about Israel’s metal and machinery industries, major projects, market needs, current challenges, and practical business experience, addressing participants online. Particular attention was given to practical examples of cooperation and opportunities to connect companies from the two countries.

Aleksandar Nikolić, Director of the Representative Office of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce in Jerusalem and Honorary Consul of the Republic of Serbia in the State of Israel, drew on his decades of business experience in the Israeli market and cooperation with numerous Serbian companies to discuss the specific characteristics of doing business in Israel and opportunities to develop cooperation in the metal industry. He emphasized the importance of innovation in enhancing competitiveness and opening up new business opportunities.

Of particular significance is Israel’s decision to abolish customs duties on imports from around the world for a large number of tariff codes relevant to this sector. The measure aims to tackle Israel's high cost of living by increasing competition and creating favourable conditions for potential Serbian exporters, Nikolić pointed out.