Director of the Sector for Strategic Analysis, Services and Internationalization of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, Mihailo Vesović, met with the Ambassador of the Republic of Malta, Gordon Pace Bonnello, and discussed the possibilities of improving economic cooperation between the two countries. 
Economic cooperation between the two countries can be significantly improved, both through bilateral cooperation and through regional initiatives such as Open Balkan, especially in the sector of innovation, the gaming industry, information services, and tourism. In the following period, activities focused on the development and strengthening of economic cooperation between the two countries will be defined, it was pointed out at the meeting. Serbia's most imported products from Malta in 2022 were products of the pharmaceutical industry, while Serbia to Malta exported cigarettes, cars sets, and pasta.

New Possibilities of Cooperation with Malta 

Openness, rapid adaptation, and flexibility are key responses to profound changes in the global economy and the only way for countries and companies to remain competitive in a world that is changing faster than ever before, said Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, at the “GLOBSEC 2026” forum in Prague.
Čadež participated in the panel discussion “Global Trade in the World of ‘Trumponomics’,” dedicated to the new dynamics of global trade, the rise of protectionism, the weakening of the multilateral system, and the transformation of the global economic order following Donald Trump’s return to the White House. The panel also featured Jan Švejnar and Richard Gardner, professors at the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University, Wilhelm Molterer, Chairman of the GLOBSEC Board and former Vice Chancellor and Minister of Finance of Austria, Kazuto Suzuki, Director and Group Leader at The Institute of Geoeconomics, and Fabian Zuleeg, Chief Executive and Chief Economist at the European Policy Centre. The discussion was moderated by Dave Keating, journalist and presenter at France24.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/GLB26_DAY2_1050_Global Trade in a Trumponomics World_MS_-14_960x640.jpg" id="image-tag-1779451275412" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2285"></div>
Panel participants discussed the future of the World Trade Organization (WTO), growing trade tensions, the redefinition of global alliances, and the need for the global trading system to adapt to new geopolitical and technological realities.
Čadež, who represented Serbia’s business community and the business association bringing together more than 170,000 companies, emphasized that Serbia, thanks to its experience in dealing with numerous crises and challenges, is now an example of a country capable of rapidly adapting to global changes and successfully balancing between different economic and political centers.
“Serbia is an interesting example of a country that has investments from China, exports more than 60 percent of its goods to the European Union and receives significant investments from the EU, while at the same time developing cooperation with new markets, primarily in the Global South and Africa,” Čadež said.
He stressed that one of today’s key issues is linking global trade with the technological revolution driven by artificial intelligence.
“We no longer live in the world in which the existing trade agreements were created. We live in a world of tokens, in a world where it will be crucial to determine who has the energy and infrastructure required to produce intelligence. The question is whether we will have intelligence factories that will create the future economy and future value,” the President of the Chamber said.
“At this moment, we have NVIDIA projects worth 800 million dollars in AI factories, while at the same time a Chinese humanoid robot factory – the first on the European continent – is being developed and will be completed within two months. Such robot factories currently exist only in the United States and China,” Čadež stated.
He highlighted that the speed of investment implementation is one of Serbia’s greatest competitive advantages.
“In Serbia, permits are obtained ten times faster than in the European Union. If you want to build a smart economy based on artificial intelligence, you cannot spend seven years building a factory – the job has to be completed within a year,” Čadež said.
The President of the Chamber also reminded participants that, thanks to its free trade agreements, Serbia has access to a market of 2.7 billion consumers, representing a significant advantage at a time of growing global market fragmentation.
Speaking about Europe’s position in the new geoeconomic environment, Čadež assessed that the European Union must define more clearly its relationship with China, as well as its own industrial strategy.
“Our strategic orientation remains Europe, but we must understand the new global order and the place we want to have in it. Europe will never be China or the United States, but it must find a way to function in a world between these two powers,” Čadež said.
He also pointed to a lack of communication between European institutions and the business community, citing the example of the most advanced Stellantis factory in Europe, located in Serbia and producing electric vehicles, which cannot participate in European Union public procurement procedures and tenders due to regulatory limitations.
“We need a serious discussion about European industrial policy. I have never seen an administration so disconnected from its own economy as is currently the case in the European Union,” Čadež stated.
He concluded that security, defense, unity, and long-term strategy are issues Europe must urgently and seriously address in a time of global disruption and uncertainty.
Panel participants viewed a multilateral approach and new partnerships with regions and countries such as Africa, India, and Canada as a possible solution for Europe’s current position between China and the United States.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/GLB26_DAY2_1050_Global Trade in a Trumponomics World_MS_-7_960x640.jpg" id="image-tag-1779451290382" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2284"></div>
PHOTO: GLOBSEC

Flexibility Is the Answer to the New Reality: Čadež at GLOBSEC 2026 on the Future of Global Trade and the AI Economy

New business partnerships, agreements on increasing the placement of Serbian products on the French market, and strengthened institutional cooperation in the field of women’s entrepreneurship marked the French-Serbian Women’s Business Forum, taking place in Paris from May 19 to 23.
Concrete business results were achieved during the very first meetings. French company “The Good List” agreed on cooperation with Serbian brands “Wool Art,” “Vele Brand,” and “Hota Hota Jewellery,” whose products will be featured on the French digital platform. This creates new opportunities for their market placement and visibility across the European market.
The Serbian delegation included 17 companies representing organic food production, information technology and artificial intelligence, architecture and construction, sustainable and rural tourism, winemaking, fashion, cosmetics, design, and creative industries. The Forum provided an opportunity for direct B2B discussions, networking with French companies, and opening new possibilities for exports and joint projects.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Париз 3_960x540.jpg" id="image-tag-1779371670847" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2281"></div>
“Women entrepreneurs bring added value because they not only create new horizons, jobs, and business opportunities, but also bring with them strong determination, responsibility, innovation, and empathy,” emphasized H.E. Ana Hrustanović, Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia to France.
Ivana Adamović, Advisor to the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, highlighted that Serbia today represents one of the most dynamic economies in Southeast Europe and that economic cooperation between Serbia and France continues to record steady growth. Tatjana Novik from the Business Club and the “Women and Challenges” Network emphasized the importance of such meetings and networking opportunities, which provide Serbian and French businesswomen with a chance to establish business connections, while Delphine Val, Director General of the Normandy Chamber of Commerce, called for continued cooperation between the two chambers and women entrepreneurs.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Париз 5_960x1016.jpg" id="image-tag-1779371694441" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2282"></div>
Following a reception at the Residence of the Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia, Marija Nestorović, Acting Director of the Serbian Cultural Center in Paris, hosted the Serbian businesswomen and presented the Center’s activities and work. Iva Vuksanović from the Center for Business Support Programs and SMEs introduced the support activities provided by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia for women entrepreneurs and presented all 17 companies to French businesswomen.
Trade exchange between the two countries exceeded EUR 2.3 billion in 2025, while more than 5,000 Serbian companies cooperate with French partners. Nearly 300 companies with majority French capital operate in Serbia, employing around 14,000 people. According to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, women account for 33 percent of the entrepreneurship sector, placing Serbia in line with the European Union average.
During the Forum, it was also agreed that a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and the Normandy Chamber of Commerce in the field of women’s entrepreneurship would be signed, while a return visit by French businesswomen to Serbia is planned during the World Expo 2027.
A significant step was also made in cultural cooperation. The Belgrade Festival Center (CEBEF) established cooperation with one of the most important European documentary film festivals in Paris, and the partnership will continue within this year’s FEST in Belgrade.

Serbian Women Entrepreneurs in France: New Partnerships, Greater Market Access and Enhanced Cooperation

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) and Orion Telekom, as NVIDIA’s AI Factory partner in Serbia, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation today, effectively launching the development of a Serbian business language model based on NVIDIA technology &mdash; a model designed to understand the Serbian language, both Cyrillic and Latin scripts, domestic business terminology, regulations, and the specific characteristics of Serbian industries, with the aim of enhancing competitiveness and accelerating the digital transformation of companies in Serbia.

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The Memorandum was signed by Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, and Slobodan Đinović, CEO and founder of Orion Telekom, in the presence of Carlo Ruiz, Vice President for Enterprise Solutions & Operations EMEA at NVIDIA.
“The Memorandum we signed today enables the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and Orion, as NVIDIA’s AI Factory partner in Serbia, to initiate the development of a Serbian business language model &mdash; more precisely, a series of models &mdash; based on NVIDIA’s Nemotron architecture. This is a model that understands the Serbian language, both Cyrillic and Latin scripts, our business terminology, regulatory environment, and the specifics of our industries,” said Čadež.
According to him, the global AI race is entering a phase where competitive advantage will no longer be measured by the speed of completing individual tasks, but rather by the ability to fundamentally transform how business itself is conducted.
“The greatest value of AI does not come from accelerating a single email or summarizing a document. True transformation happens when AI connects multiple processes, systems, and decisions into a single coordinated workflow,” Čadež explained.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/IMG_0857_960x720.jpeg" id="image-tag-1779182324953" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2279"></div>
Companies that merely add AI to existing systems, he added, may achieve modest efficiency gains, while those that redesign their processes around new technologies will gain entirely new competitive positions &mdash; and competitiveness remains one of CCIS’s core responsibilities.
“We bring together more than 130,000 companies across a wide range of sectors, from banking, telecommunications, and pharmaceuticals to energy, food production, and many others. Our responsibility is not only to sign memorandums. Our responsibility is to turn this infrastructure and this model into a tangible competitive advantage for the Serbian economy &mdash; without losing time,” emphasized the President of CCIS.
Čadež highlighted that it is a significant privilege for this step to be taken together with Orion and a company such as NVIDIA. He noted that Carlo Ruiz’s presence at the signing was not merely ceremonial, but rather a signal that Serbia had been selected and that Orion Telekom had been chosen as NVIDIA’s AI Factory partner, demonstrating that what is currently being built follows global standards.
“Serbia now has a generational opportunity to establish the foundations of future economic sovereignty and competitiveness. The countries and companies that succeed will be those capable of integrating technology, institutions, capital, and human judgment into a unified vision. That is precisely what we are trying to achieve today,” Čadež stated.
Čadež also recalled attending the opening of Orion’s first AI Factory in February this year, describing it as the first commercial sovereign AI infrastructure in Southeast Europe equipped with the latest NVIDIA chips, designed to ensure that domestic data remains stored within Serbia.
Đinović emphasized the importance of the Memorandum, which, according to him, will enable the creation of a series of specialized small-scale AI models intended for domestic and regional companies, while also announcing plans for business expansion and company growth.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/7777777777777777777_960x720.jpeg" id="image-tag-1779182345568" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2277"></div>
“We have submitted an initiative to the Government of Serbia aimed at establishing a national AI factory. We expect that investment to amount to approximately €800 million, while, according to our estimates, the state could benefit by around €2.5 billion. This is something that will create substantial momentum toward AI technologies and position us as generators of new revenues and jobs,” said Đinović.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/IMG_0893_960x720.jpeg" id="image-tag-1779182366552" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2276"></div>
Following the signing ceremony, Carlo Ruiz, Vice President for Enterprise Solutions &Operations EMEA at NVIDIA, held an exclusive executive masterclass titled ‘AI & the Future of Business’ at CCIS for leading representatives of Serbia’s business community.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/99999999999999999999_960x720.jpeg" id="image-tag-1779182380038" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2278"></div>
Photo: Ivana Vukotić / CCIS

CCIS and Orion Telekom Launch Development of a Serbian Business AI Model Based on NVIDIA Technology

Serbia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have significant potential for new investments and stronger cooperation in agribusiness, high technologies, logistics, and supply chains, it was emphasized during the meeting between the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), Marko Čadež, and the UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Dr. Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, who is leading the Emirati state and business delegation visiting Serbia on the occasion of the International Agricultural Fair in Novi Sad.

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During the meeting at the CCIS, discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between Serbia and the UAE in agriculture, the food industry, agri-tech, the food-tech industry, and innovations in the agricultural sector, as well as on improving the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between the two countries, particularly in the areas of trade and investment in the agri-food sector.
The interlocutors also highlighted the importance of connecting scientific institutions, enhancing institutional cooperation, and intensifying networking among companies, including the logistics sector, which represents important support for the development of agriculture and the trade of agricultural products.
Čadež emphasized the great opportunities for cooperation and networking between companies from the UAE and Serbia, as well as with other global markets. “Serbia can serve Emirati companies as a hub for the European Union market, while Serbian companies see the Emirates as a gateway to the Gulf countries,” the President of the CCIS said. He particularly pointed to the application of high technologies in Serbian agriculture and the potential for new partnerships.
The CCIS President also recalled the successful cooperation with the Dubai World Trade Centre (WTC Dubai), announcing the arrival of the GITEX fair to Belgrade starting next year, as well as plans to bring other major global trade fairs to Serbia.
He stressed that the specialized exhibition EXPO 2027, which will be held in Belgrade, will further strengthen Serbia’s position as a regional center for organizing major international events. He also underlined the importance of investing in infrastructure capacities, especially in expanding port capacities.

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Minister Al Shamsi assessed that there are major investment opportunities for cooperation between the two countries and emphasized the need for more frequent visits of business delegations and mapping key areas for joint projects.
She also highlighted the importance of institutional cooperation in order to provide stronger support to the business communities for more intensive economic cooperation, and invited CCIS President Marko Čadež to lead a Serbian business delegation to the UAE so that companies could discuss new business opportunities and partnerships through direct meetings.
Al Shamsi praised the organization of EXPO 2027, assessing it as a major and important project that significantly contributes to the international recognition of Serbia and Belgrade.
Total foreign trade exchange between Serbia and the UAE, including goods and services, reached one billion dollars in 2025, representing an eight percent increase compared to the previous year.
Trade in goods between the two countries amounted to 113.4 million dollars, while trade in services reached 916.1 million dollars, representing a 12 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Serbian Agri-Technologies in the Focus of the UAE Delegation Visit
During her visit to Serbia, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi also met with the Serbian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, Prof. Dr. Dragan Glamočić, with whom she discussed opportunities to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, innovation, food security, livestock development, and the sustainable use of water resources for agriculture.

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Special emphasis during the discussions was placed on the development of agri-technologies, the application of modern irrigation systems, as well as opportunities for cooperation in artificial intelligence and sustainable food production.

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The UAE delegation attended the Business Summit 2026, which gathered more than 400 participants at Ložionica, as well as the panel in which the founder of “EMAAR Properties” and creator of the famous Burj Khalifa, Mohamed Alabbar, as the central guest of the “Hard Talk” segment, spoke about investments, architecture, and global visions.

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During her visit to Serbia, Minister Al Shamsi also visited the company Agrosava in Šimanovci, where the UAE delegation was presented with production capacities, development projects, and innovations in agri-technologies, especially in the segment of pet food production.

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Company representatives pointed out that Agrosava operates in numerous global markets and exports its products to more than 30 countries, including Russia, Italy, France, and Croatia. The company employs seven PhDs, while more than 50 percent of its employees are engineers, confirming its orientation toward innovation, technology, and the development of modern agricultural solutions.
The discussions highlighted the potential for cooperation with UAE companies in the areas of innovation, application of modern technologies, and development of sustainable production systems.

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As part of the program, Minister Al Shamsi also attended the ceremonial opening of the 93rd International Agricultural Fair in Novi Sad, which this year gathered more than 1,200 exhibitors from Serbia and around 40 countries worldwide.
On the second day of the visit, the UAE Minister visited Zobnatica, an agricultural complex operating within the Elite Agro company and representing one of the significant Emirati investments in the Republic of Serbia. The visit focused on strengthening cooperation in agricultural production, especially in the field crop production segment, as well as on the further development of Serbia-UAE partnerships in food security and stable supply chains. One of the main topics discussed was the possibility of further improving irrigation systems as an important prerequisite for increasing production efficiency and achieving more stable yields.

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Photo/&nbsp;Boban Ristić ( CCIS)&nbsp;

​Serbian Agriculture Opens New Opportunities for Partnerships with the UAE

A seminar on strengthening economic relations between Mexico and Serbia was held at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, focusing on advancing economic cooperation between the two countries and creating new opportunities for Serbian companies within global supply chains.
Deputy President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia Mihailo Vesović emphasized the importance of such initiatives in intensifying economic cooperation between Serbia and Mexico.
“After more than two decades without a business mission, we invite Mexican companies to come to Belgrade. We want Belgrade to be included on the route map of business delegations visiting this region. We will be proud hosts,” Vesović stated.
He highlighted the high-tech and IT services sector as an area with strong cooperation potential, noting that geographical distance and logistics are less significant factors in these industries.
“Serbian companies can offer high-quality IT and high-tech services to the Mexican market, while there is also considerable room for investment cooperation,” Vesović added, thanking the Embassy of Mexico for its support in organizing the seminar and strengthening economic relations between the two countries.
Carlos Isauro Félix Corona pointed out that Mexico, with a population of more than 130 million, represents one of the world’s most important economies.
“Mexico has a strong industrial sector, particularly in the automotive industry, auto parts manufacturing, and aerospace industry, as well as a highly developed agricultural sector. We are the world’s leading silver producer and one of the world’s most visited tourist destinations, welcoming 46 million international visitors annually,” the ambassador said.
He also recalled that the Free Trade Agreement between Mexico, Canada, and the United States remains in force and is currently undergoing revision aimed at further improving regional economic cooperation.
Speaking about global economic challenges, the ambassador assessed that geopolitical tensions and tariff barriers have significantly affected the global economy, while at the same time creating new opportunities for companies seeking to become part of emerging supply chains.
“The structure of the global economy will not change dramatically, but supply chains are shifting. Mexico belongs to one of the world’s most important regions, and in that context, Serbian companies have an opportunity to become part of those supply chains,” the ambassador emphasized.
During the seminar, it was also noted that Mexico is the world’s tenth-largest exporter and the eleventh-largest investment destination, while as much as 75 percent of the country’s GDP comes from foreign trade. Mexico is the second-largest economy in Latin America and one of the region’s export leaders, while among OECD countries it stands out for its large number of engineers and STEM graduates.

Serbia and Mexico Strengthen Economic Cooperation

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) has launched an initiative to organize a major Serbia–Egypt Women’s Business Forum within the framework of the international exhibition EXPO 2027 in Belgrade, it was announced today during a meeting between Mihailo Vesović, Vice President of CCIS, and Ahmed Salama Soliman, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Serbia.The meeting highlighted the importance of providing additional support for strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries, particularly in light of the Free Trade Agreement between Serbia and Egypt and the opportunities offered by Serbia Export Company &mdash; the operational platform of CCIS for implementing concrete trade and investment projects, with a priority focus on African markets and the development of joint initiatives with local partners.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/43561.jpg" id="image-tag-1778508161785" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2257"></div>
“Over the past years, we have worked intensively on strengthening trade cooperation with Egypt, which resulted in the adoption of the Free Trade Agreement between the two countries and numerous joint projects. We now want to further concretize this cooperation and establish stronger ties between the business communities of the two countries. EXPO 2027 and Serbia Export Company provide an excellent opportunity for this, as the company serves as a bridge between Serbian and African businesses,” Vesović pointed out.
Vesović added that businesswomen in Egypt represent a strong and increasingly influential business community, making a significant contribution to the development of entrepreneurship, investment, and international economic cooperation. He emphasized that a major gathering in Belgrade with their Serbian counterparts could lead to the launch of important joint projects.
Ahmed Salama Soliman, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Serbia, stressed the need to further support cooperation between Egyptian and Serbian companies. He noted that one of the next steps should be organizing a meeting of business representatives from both sides, opening a CCIS representative office in Cairo, and supporting business networking through the Women’s Business Forum of Egyptian and Serbian businesswomen within EXPO 2027.
Data show that since the Free Trade Agreement between Serbia and Egypt entered into force in 2025, bilateral trade has increased by 51 percent. Both sides see strong potential for enhanced cooperation in the pharmaceutical industry, agriculture and food industry, metal and chemical industries, energy sector and industrial equipment, as well as ICT.
Photo: Boban Ristić / CCIS

CCIS Initiates Major Serbia–Egypt Women’s Business Forum at EXPO 2027

Business forums and conferences dedicated to strengthening economic cooperation between Serbia and Italy, deepening bilateral economic relations, supporting the internationalization of companies, and presenting Serbia’s development potential ahead of the specialized exhibition EXPO Belgrade 2027, were held in Rome on May 6 and 7.The events were organized in cooperation between Serbian and Italian institutions and gathered senior government officials, representatives of chambers of commerce, financial institutions, and leading companies from both countries. On the first day, the focus was on support mechanisms for Italian companies in international markets, as well as on the role of the confederative and chamber systems in strengthening economic cooperation in the Western Balkans. The gathering was opened by Maria Monica Annibaldis, Honorary Representative of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia in Italy. Addresses were delivered by Serbia’s Ambassador to Italy, Mirjana Jeremić, State Secretary at the Ministry of Domestic and Foreign Trade Stevan Nikčević, Italian Ambassador to Serbia Luca Gori, and Mihailo Vesović, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia. During the roundtable discussions, participants addressed strategic cooperation between the public and private sectors, export support policies, and the role of financial institutions in supporting investments and the internationalization of companies. Special emphasis was placed on development projects in Serbia and the opportunities brought by EXPO Belgrade 2027, recognized as one of the most significant international events in the region. Mihailo Vesović, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, emphasized that Serbia represents a reliable partner for the Italian economy, offering a stable investment environment, a developed industrial base, and an increasingly strong positioning in the fields of innovation, infrastructure, and sustainable development.&nbsp;Representatives of Unioncamere, CNA, CONFAPI, Promos, as well as leading financial institutions CDP and SIMEST, highlighted the importance of institutional and financial support for new investments and for strengthening the presence of Italian companies in Serbia and the wider region.On the second day, the conference “Serbia Strategy 2035 – Economic Cooperation and Major Global Events” was held at Sala del Refettorio in the Chamber of Deputies in Rome, focusing on Serbia’s long-term development vision and opportunities for further strengthening the partnership with Italy. Participants discussed the priorities of the Serbia Strategy 2035, support for Italian companies, and the development of healthcare, wellness, cultural and creative industries, agriculture, research, and innovation sectors. Representatives of Confindustria, the Italian Trade Agency (ITA/ICE), SIMEST, and other institutions emphasized that Serbia is playing an increasingly important role as a regional hub for investment, manufacturing, and technological development. Special attention was devoted to major international events and their impact on economic growth. Participants assessed that EXPO Belgrade 2027, under the theme “Play for Humanity,” will serve as a strong driver for new investments, infrastructure development, innovation, and the international promotion of Serbia. The importance of the GITEX AI initiative and cooperation in the fields of digitalization, artificial intelligence, and the sports industry was also highlighted. It was concluded that Serbia and Italy have strong foundations for further enhancing economic cooperation through joint investments, technological connectivity, innovation development, and participation in major international projects. Italy remains one of Serbia’s most important foreign trade and investment partners, while Serbia continues to strengthen its position as a regional business and development hub in Southeast Europe.

​Serbia and Italy Strengthen Strategic Economic Partnership Ahead of EXPO 2027

The prestigious international entrepreneurship development program, “LEADER Project Serbia 2026,” designed for 40 young entrepreneurs, startup founders, and young professionals from various industries, officially began today at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) and will run until May 15.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/DSC01824.jpg" id="image-tag-1777899395265" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2248"></div>The project is implemented by the Canadian-Serbian Business Association (CANSEE), in cooperation with one of Canada’s leading business schools, Ivey Business School, with the support of the CCIS and the Embassy of Canada in Serbia.
At the opening ceremony, Executive Director of the Canadian-Serbian Business Association, Mirjana Dončić-Biton, stated that this marks the 11th edition of the LEADER program in Serbia.
She emphasized that the program represents a unique educational concept that has, for decades, brought together young entrepreneurs and professionals with the aim of enhancing their business knowledge and skills.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/DSC01850.jpg" id="image-tag-1777899368886" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2244"></div>
Dončić-Biton specified that during the ten-day intensive course, participants from Serbia will have the opportunity to learn about global best business practices through interactive MBA-format workshops led by five Canadian instructors.
“Our goal is to empower young people through practical examples. These programs introduce the most advanced approaches in entrepreneurship, business management, leadership, as well as managerial skills that participants can take away from this program,” she said.
According to her, tracking participants who have completed the program in Serbia shows that they remain active in the domestic economy and enter the market with new products and startups.
Deputy President of the CCIS, Mihailo Vesović, addressing the participants, stated that entrepreneurial education and continuous professional development in business are becoming increasingly important, highlighting that joint initiatives in this field are among the most valuable activities carried out by the CCIS.
He announced that in three weeks, a CCIS delegation along with around 30 Serbian business representatives will take part in a promotional flight on the Belgrade–Toronto route, marking the launch of a direct flight by the national airline Air Serbia.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/DSC01842.jpg" id="image-tag-1777899383667" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="2245"></div>
“This is not only about a promotional flight and the launch of a permanent direct Belgrade–Toronto route, which will provide significant support to the business community in developing cooperation, but we will also organize a business forum in Toronto on that occasion,” Vesović said.
According to him, this level of visit and organization of a business forum is rare in previous practice, but also represents an exceptional opportunity to enhance economic relations.
Vesović added that, in addition to the business forum and direct meetings with business representatives from Toronto and the Province of Ontario, the delegation will have specialized visits to companies in the aviation industry, including Bombardier, with the aim of learning about experiences and cooperation opportunities in the high-tech sector.
He also emphasized that the services sector dominates economic cooperation between Serbia and Canada, adding that geographical distance and logistical challenges are not key obstacles to competitiveness.
“Serbia is a well-positioned and attractive market for Canadian investors, while for us, Canada represents an opportunity to raise our technological level and establish partnerships on a global scale,” Vesović said.
He noted that Serbian-Canadian relations represent an important form of transatlantic cooperation and expressed expectations that, following the business forum and the establishment of the direct flight, there will be a significant increase in trade exchange, particularly in the services sector, information technology, and artificial intelligence.
Ambassador of Canada to Serbia, Michelle Cameron, stated that the “LEADER Project” is one of the flagship programs that has, across 23 countries, supported more than 10,000 young entrepreneurs in launching their ideas.
“What I value most about this program is that it encourages and develops entrepreneurship, enabling participants to remain in their home country, start their own businesses or, if they are already employed, become even better by applying newly acquired techniques,” she said.
Cameron emphasized that the program will enable young people to develop their ideas, start their own companies, operate successfully, and bring those ideas to the global market.
“As an ambassador, I assign each participant the role of an ambassador&mdash;to, through developing their ideas and launching businesses, become carriers of new business ties between our two countries,” she stated.
Cameron added that she believes participants, upon completing the program, will gain new ideas for launching businesses that are significant for Serbia.
As stated, the LEADER program was founded in 1991 by MBA students of Ivey Business School, with the mission to support the development of entrepreneurial ideas and empower a new generation of leaders.

The 11th LEADER Project Serbia 2026 for Youth Launched at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia

Switzerland is the sixth-largest investor in Serbia and the fourth-largest export market for the domestic IT industry, with significant potential for further deepening cooperation in mechanical engineering, railways, artificial intelligence, robotics, construction, and the pharmaceutical industry, said Mihailo Vesović, Deputy President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), at a meeting with a business delegation from the Swiss Confederation at the Palace of Serbia today.
The Swiss business delegation is visiting Belgrade as part of the two-day official visit of the President of the Swiss Confederation, Guy Parmelin, who was hosted by the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, on the occasion of the 110th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Serbia and Switzerland.
“On the occasion of the visit of the Swiss President, we have a business delegation led by one of the most experienced teams representing their leading business associations, primarily in mechanical engineering, railways, pharmaceuticals, aviation, and the construction materials industry,” Vesović stated.
He emphasized that Swiss companies are interested in advancing innovation, technological, and scientific cooperation with Serbia, which boasts high-quality universities and skilled engineers.
“Switzerland is the sixth-largest investor in Serbia, and all prerequisites are in place for cooperation to reach an even higher level,” Vesović pointed out, adding that trade between the two countries exceeds one billion euros. He also noted that Switzerland is the fourth-largest export market for Serbia’s IT industry, following Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Christoph Mäder, President of Economiesuisse, the largest umbrella organization of the Swiss economy, highlighted the importance of strengthening ties through direct business engagement.
“The Swiss economy is largely composed of small and medium-sized enterprises. Many of them are export-oriented. Although relatively small, these companies are highly active within their niche markets,” Mäder said, stressing that the visit of the Swiss delegation presents an excellent opportunity to unlock cooperation potential between the two economies.
The meeting between Serbian and Swiss companies was also attended by the Minister of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure, Aleksandra Sofronijević, and the Minister of Internal and External Trade, Jagoda Lazarević. The potential of EXPO 2027 and the GITEX exhibition was also presented, alongside B2B meetings between Serbian and Swiss companies.

Vesović: Strong Potential for Cooperation with Switzerland in Innovation and Industry

Serbia and India are entering a new phase of economic relations, with a clear goal of increasing bilateral trade from the current approximately $130 million to as much as $1 billion within the next two to three years, while also strengthening business ties between their companies. This was stated by Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, and Ashish Saraf, Honorary Representative of the Chamber in India, during the “Čadež Talk” program.
Čadež emphasized that Serbia is rapidly building its position as a regional economic hub, with growing interest from global partners. “We are preparing a large business delegation from India to visit Belgrade, as well as organizing visits of Serbian companies to India. We have a concrete goal and a clear timeline&mdash;and we are beginning to work seriously toward achieving it,” Čadež stressed.
Saraf assessed that the target is achievable with strong institutional support and determination on both sides. He particularly highlighted the importance of establishing a direct flight route, which would position Serbia as a gateway for Indian companies entering Europe. “Serbia has the potential to become an important bridge to the European Union&mdash;geographically, economically, and logistically,” Saraf noted.
Speaking about Serbia, he pointed to visible strong development, especially in infrastructure, urban development, and the business environment. As a symbol of this transformation, he singled out the Belgrade Waterfront project, which he described as an example of modernization and the capital’s new image. “It is tremendous progress&mdash;a space that today looks like a small Dubai, well-organized, clean, and attractive for both living and business,” Saraf said.
He identified Serbia’s key advantages as an educated and motivated workforce, strong English-language proficiency, and competitive business costs. He added that Serbia offers significant opportunities in the tourism, technology, and manufacturing sectors.
The speakers agreed on the need to strengthen the presence of companies in both markets, as well as to improve mutual understanding of their potential. Saraf invited Serbian businesspeople to visit India and experience a market undergoing rapid transformation: “Don’t start with business&mdash;come and feel India first, because only then can you truly understand its opportunities.”
Artificial intelligence was also highlighted as one of the key drivers of global change. Saraf noted that AI is dramatically transforming the way people learn, do business, and function as a society, while also bringing challenges such as labor market transformation. “Progress is inevitable&mdash;it brings more knowledge and efficiency, but it also requires adaptation,” he said, pointing out that India, with hundreds of millions of smartphone users, is one of the key players in this process.
Speaking about India, Saraf assessed that it is not only developing but also actively shaping the future of the world, from technology to the global economy. Rising confidence, infrastructure development, and technological advancement have positioned India as an equal global player, with a decreasing need to look up to Europe as a model.
Reflecting on Europe, Saraf noted that it once represented a “role model” for Indian citizens, but that perception is changing. Today, he said, India offers its own “wow factor,” while Europe, unless it accelerates reforms and efficiency, risks becoming a “large museum.”
In the broader context of global change, the speakers highlighted growing uncertainty in the world economy and the need for greater self-sufficiency among countries. Saraf emphasized that success depends on mindset rather than the size of a country, and that smaller economies like Serbia can achieve significant progress through strategic partnerships.
A special part of the discussion was dedicated to entrepreneurship and personal development. Saraf stressed that it is often easier and more successful to start “from scratch,” as there is no fear of loss. “When you have nothing, you have everything to gain. That is the essence of the entrepreneurial spirit,” he concluded, adding that this path has shaped many of the world’s most successful leaders.

Serbia and India: A $1 Billion Trade Target and a New Era of Cooperation

Economic cooperation between Serbia and the Republic of South Africa (RSA) holds significant potential for strengthening in the fields of energy, mining, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals, it was stated today at a meeting between Mihailo Vesović, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), and Alvin Botes, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the RSA.
The meeting participants agreed that additional momentum for cooperation could come from the potential opening of a CCIS representative office in South Africa.
“Cooperation with the entire African continent is very important to us, especially with South Africa, where we see strong potential for enhancing collaboration in energy, renewable energy sources, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, as well as in the ICT sector, construction, logistics, and other areas,” Vesović emphasized.
He noted that, in order to further advance economic relations, it would be important for a business delegation from Serbia to visit South Africa in the near future, to explore opportunities for joint investments and joint appearances in third markets with local business representatives.
Vesović also highlighted Serbia’s strategic position in the region, as well as the opportunities that will open up for South African businesses during the international exhibition Expo 2027.
Botes recalled the historical ties between South Africa and the former Yugoslavia, stressing the importance of building on these strong foundations to further develop economic relations between the Serbian and South African business communities. He particularly pointed out the potential for cooperation in energy, mining, the food industry, and other sectors, noting that in the coming period it is necessary to accelerate and concretize business ties between the two economies.
The Republic of South Africa is a developed market with vast mineral resources and a strong industrial base, serving as a hub for numerous international companies across various sectors. Key industries include steel production, construction, energy, and manufacturing, among others.

Serbia and South Africa Open a New Era of Cooperation: Energy and Mining in Focus

For the fourth consecutive year, Serbia is participating in the Vinitaly wine fair in Verona&mdash;one of the most prestigious and largest events of its kind in the world&mdash;with a clear goal: to strengthen the international position of Serbian wines and rakija and to promote the Wine Vision by Open Balkan fair, which will take place in Belgrade from October 10 to 12. At the Wine Vision by Open Balkan pavilion, more than 140 carefully selected wines and rakija from Serbia are being presented to the international professional audience in Verona from April 12 to 15.
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The selection of premium beverages has been prepared by the Serbian Association of Winemakers and Winegrowers and the Serbian Association of Rakija Producers, in cooperation with leading domestic wineries and distilleries, with the aim of showcasing the quality, authenticity, and diversity of Serbia’s offerings in one place. Through professionally guided tastings, visitors have the opportunity to explore indigenous grape varieties, contemporary styles, and the export potential of Serbian wines and rakija.
 Established in 1967, Vinitaly gathers more than 4,000 exhibitors and professional buyers from over 130 countries, making it one of the key global platforms in the wine industry. In such an environment, Wine Vision by Open Balkan continues to strengthen its international recognition. Cooperation with Vinitaly has developed as a partnership that includes the exchange of knowledge, business contacts, and active engagement of international buyers. As a result, an increasing number of Italian wineries participate in the Belgrade fair each year, while the partnership also ensures the presence of professional buyers from the Vinitaly network.
 “It is a particular pleasure that our country is presenting itself at this fair through the prestigious event ‘Wine Vision by Open Balkan,’ which is the result of the personal commitment of the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić. This clearly demonstrates that Serbia has become a relevant player on the European wine map. Visitor interest in our wines is significant, and this success is the result of coordinated efforts by the Government of the Republic of Serbia, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, the Association of Winemakers and Winegrowers, and the Association of Rakija Producers. The state has provided substantial incentives for our winemakers and winegrowers, and we will continue to pursue new export arrangements and further develop Serbia’s wine sector,” said Dragan Glamočić, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of Serbia, during his visit to the Wine Vision by Open Balkan pavilion.
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“Direct contact with top-tier buyers and the opportunity for them to taste our wines and rakija are crucial for entering new markets and achieving tangible business results,” emphasized Igor Popović, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia. “At Vinitaly, we present a cross-section of the very best Serbia has to offer today&mdash;from indigenous varieties to authentic expressions of Serbian terroir. The strong interest of the professional audience confirms that our wines, like our rakija, have growing international potential,” said Stevan Rajta, Director of the Serbian Association of Winemakers and Winegrowers.
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In line with the regional concept of the initiative, wines from North Macedonia and Albania are also being showcased at the pavilion, further strengthening the regional identity and recognition of the wine offering.
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Photo: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management and Nina Mirković, Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia