Record Trade Exchange and New Austrian Investments in Serbia

Economic cooperation between Serbia and Austria continues to follow a positive trend, with trade between the two countries expected to reach a record level this year, while Austrian companies continue to show strong interest in investing and doing business in Serbia. This was highlighted at today’s meeting between Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), and Enno Drofenik, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to Serbia.

The meeting focused on further advancing economic cooperation between the two countries, supporting the business community, attracting new investments and creating opportunities for stronger business ties. Particular attention was paid to the continued interest of Austrian companies in Serbia, as demonstrated by recent acquisitions, as well as new investments and acquisitions currently in preparation. The continued presence and new investments by Austrian companies were described as an important indicator of confidence in the Serbian economy and its development potential, it was said at the meeting between Čadež and Drofenik.

Čadež thanked Austria for its support for numerous programmes contributing to the development of the Serbian economy, particularly in the areas of dual education and skills development, as well as for cooperation aimed at strengthening the alignment between the education system and the needs of the economy.

Transport connectivity and current challenges in cross-border transport, which directly affect companies’ operations and the flow of goods, were also among the topics discussed. The importance of continuing the dialogue between Serbia, Austria and European institutions was emphasised, with a view to finding effective solutions and improving conditions for transport and trade. In this context, the role of European Commissioner Magnus Brunner in addressing and resolving issues of importance for the unhindered movement of people and goods, as well as in continuing dialogue with European institutions, was particularly highlighted.

The meeting also covered EXPO 2027 Belgrade and Austria’s participation in the event, which represents an additional opportunity to strengthen economic relations, connect the two business communities and create new opportunities for cooperation.

Other topics included Serbia’s European integration, the importance of further integrating the Serbian economy into European value chains, and opportunities to further strengthen Austria’s role as one of Serbia’s important economic partners.

The interlocutors agreed on the importance of maintaining regular dialogue and intensifying cooperation between the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, the Embassy of Austria and the business communities of the two countries, including the organisation of new business forums, B2B meetings and joint initiatives.

The President of the CCIS wished Ambassador Drofenik a successful term in office and expressed the Chamber’s readiness to continue serving as a reliable partner in further strengthening economic relations between Serbia and Austria.

The meeting was attended by Andreas Heidenthaler, Head of the Economic Section of the Embassy of Austria, and Nada Knežević, Adviser to the President of the CCIS.

Photo: Ivana Vukotić/CCIS