The first regional conference dedicated to the rapid changes and development of the engineering sector, the Western Balkan Engineering Leadership Forum (WBELF), was held at&nbsp;the Chamber of Commerce of Serbia, gathering around 150 leaders from academia, businesses, government institutions, and students.
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A two-day conference explored current challenges and opportunities in engineering education and industry in the Western Balkans, through a series of panels and lectures,&nbsp;&nbsp;aiming to address the fast-paced changes driven by automation and the advancement of artificial intelligence.
Special emphasis has been&nbsp;placed on successful examples of aligning academic programs with industry needs, developing talent through industry-oriented research projects, and adapting curricula to prepare a new generation of engineers for future challenges.&nbsp;
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The WBELF forum was organized by the Global Engineering Deans Council (GEDC) and the International Federation of Engineering Education Societies (IFEES), with support from the "Great Small Economy" project, funded by USAID and the Serbian Chamber of Commerce (PKS).
&nbsp;With the participation and support of&nbsp;high-profile attendees, H.E. Cristofer Hill, Ambassador of USA in Serbia, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation of Serbia, Jelena Begović and Mihailo Vesović, Director of the Sector for Strategic Analysis, Services, and Internationalization, the forum highlighted the need for strong collaboration in aligning educational programs with industry needs, encouraging women in STEM careers, fostering regional integration and economic competitiveness, supporting SMEs as Innovation Hubs, attracting and retaining talent, and creating a long-term vision for Engineering Education.&nbsp;<figure><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/31102024 WBELF (11).jpg" id="image-tag-1730456512469" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1330"></figure>

Transformation of the Engineering Sector in the Western Balkans: A Key to Economic Competitiveness

“The United Kingdom is one of Serbia's most significant partners, both economically and technologically. For years, it has ranked among the top three partners in service trade, immediately after Germany and the United States,” said Mihailo Vesović, Deputy President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, at the First British-Serbian Technology Conference held today at the Science and Technology Park in Novi Sad.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/20250529_100534.jpg" id="image-tag-1748597030586" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1717"></div>
The conference brought together over 250 participants and more than 20 British companies from the fields of information and communication technologies, financial services, cybersecurity, and digital innovations. Discussions focused on the application of new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence in the economy, as well as opportunities to enhance cooperation between Serbia and the United Kingdom in the area of digital transformation.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/20250529_103731_960x720.jpg" id="image-tag-1748597046899" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1718"></div>
Vesović emphasized that the Serbian ICT sector currently accounts for about 40% of total service trade with the UK, predominantly through software exports. Total service exports to the UK have exceeded €1.5 billion, with Serbia achieving a surplus of €386 million.
Software exports have closely approached the total goods exports of all Serbian products to the UK, which amounted to €430 million in 2024.
The importance of bilateral cooperation in the fields of technology, innovation, and education was also highlighted by Lord Ranger, Chairman of the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce; Prof. Dr. Mihailo Jovanović, Director of the Office for IT and eGovernment; British Ambassador to Serbia Edward Ferguson; and Chris Barton, the UK’s Special Trade Envoy for Europe.During the conference, a new professional development program from the University of Cambridge was presented, aimed at startups and innovators from Serbia.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/20250529_132252_960x720.jpg" id="image-tag-1748597068278" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1719"></div>
The conference was organized in collaboration with the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (BSCC), the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), and the British Embassy in Belgrade.

Technologies at the Heart of Serbia–UK Cooperation

Tourism and agriculture represent promising sectors for strengthening economic cooperation between Serbia and Zambia. Zambia’s intention to participate in the specialized exhibition EXPO 2027 provides additional motivation for the development of bilateral activities. This was highlighted during a meeting between Mihailo Vesović, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), and Mulambo Haimbe, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Zambia, as well as John Shimbela, Advisor to the President of Zambia.
At the meeting held at the CCIS, Vesović emphasized that EXPO2027 is a key opportunity to lay the foundations for stronger economic cooperation. "If we use the next two years to participate jointly in trade fairs and business forums, we can significantly advance our bilateral relations," said Vesović, adding that the Chamber will provide full support for the arrival of a Zambian business delegation and facilitate its connection with the Serbian economy.
Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe presented Zambia’s strategic development priorities, focusing on strengthening economic stability, developing infrastructure, and positioning Zambia as a regional hub for trade and investment, despite its lack of direct maritime access. He highlighted the importance of natural resources, particularly critical minerals such as cobalt and nickel, as well as the significant potential in agriculture, where a well-developed scientific and research base already exists.
Tourism was pointed out as one of the most promising sectors for cooperation, given that Zambia is home to 20 national parks, including the world-famous Victoria Falls among its top tourist attractions. To strengthen tourism cooperation, it was proposed that Zambia present its tourism offer at the next International Tourism Fair in Belgrade.
In 2024, foreign trade between Serbia and Zambia amounted to 2.32 million US dollars. Serbia exported goods worth 2.25 million dollars to Zambia, primarily electric motors, wooden furniture, and specialized equipment. In return, Serbia imported goods worth 71.9 thousand dollars from Zambia, mostly consisting of cut flowers and seeds of various types of vegetables.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/DSC00735-21.jpg" id="image-tag-1748419500724" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1715"></div>

Tourism and Agriculture – Promising Sectors for Cooperation Between Serbia and Zambia

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) organized the participation of over 40 companies and brands from Serbia, as well as the presentation of the Novi Sad Science and Technology Park at the 4th China–Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) Expo and the International Consumer Goods Fair, held in Ningbo, China.&nbsp;

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This year, the fair, which is&nbsp;one of the most important events for exporters from the region, was significantly expanded to include segments dedicated to the promotion of innovation, investment stimulation, and participation of nine European countries.
During the event, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia was presented with an award for its contribution to the development of economic cooperation between China and Serbia. The award comes as recognition to the CCIS as a key partner in institutional and business cooperation between the two countries, within the China–CEEC cooperation mechanism. The award was accepted on behalf of the CCIS by Jovana Majstorović, Head of the Center for Asia, the Russian Federation, and the Commonwealth of Independent States.

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As part of the fair, the annual meeting of the China-CEEC Business Council was also held, organized by the City of Ningbo and Zhejiang Province. Representatives of business associations from China and Central and Eastern European countries discussed new opportunities for trade growth, strengthening supply chains, enhancing cooperation in the green economy sector, and promoting further mutual economic cooperation.

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Jagoda Lazarević, Minister of Domestic and Foreign Trade, who led the Serbian delegation, emphasized that Serbia has been very active in all areas of cooperation within the China–CEEC framework since its establishment. She underlined Serbia’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with both China and Central and Eastern European countries. Remarks were also delivered by Mr. Yu Jianlong, Vice President of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), Mr. Staša Košarac, Deputy Prime Minister of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Mr. Atanas Zafirov, Deputy Prime Minister of Bulgaria.
Ningbo and Zhejiang Province continue to actively develop the cooperation platform with CEE countries based on the “three main destinations” principle: as a gateway for CEE goods to enter the Chinese market, a hub for two-way investment and cooperation between China and CEE countries, and a platform for cultural exchange. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia will continue to actively participate and fully realize the potential of cooperation in all three priority areas.

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The Ningbo fair, which runs until May 25, aims to enhance trade and economic cooperation between China and the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. It serves as a platform for showcasing distinctive products from European countries, expanding China’s imports from the region, and promoting trade.
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Foto: Zhonqun Wang

CCIS Awared for Contribution to Economic Cooperation Between China and Serbia 

At Serbia's national pavilion at the GITEX Europe fair in Berlin, a Partnership Agreement was officially signed today between the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and the organizers of the world’s largest technology fair, GITEX Global, held every October in Dubai. Serbia’s partnership at this year’s GITEX Global was formally confirmed on this occasion.
The agreement was signed by Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, and Trixie LohMirmand, founder of GITEX Global, at the Serbian pavilion, in the presence of 22 innovative Serbian startup companies participating at GITEX Europe &mdash; the first European edition of this prestigious event &mdash; with the support of the CCIS.
Partnering with the world’s largest tech fair &mdash; GITEX &mdash; means a great deal for Serbia. We are recognized as a country that creates strong solutions, that is dynamic and innovative. Serbia did not become a GITEX partner by chance &mdash; we’ve been present at the fair in Dubai for years, and over the past two years, we’ve worked intensively on this partnership,” said Marko Čadež, President of the CCIS, after the signing. He emphasized that the collaboration with the organizers has enabled numerous innovative Serbian companies to showcase themselves on the global stage, from Singapore and Morocco to Europe.
“Today we are in Berlin, at the major GITEX Europe event, and in October we’ll be in Dubai as a partner country. We are continuing to develop excellent projects and further strengthen Serbia’s international tech positioning. Thank you, Trixie, for the collaboration over the past two years,” Čadež added.
“We are thrilled that Serbia will be our future digital partner at GITEX Global, the world’s largest startup and tech event. GITEX deserves a partner like Serbia &mdash; a country with a bright digital future. Your digital economy is expanding in all directions &mdash; from the IT sector and STEM education to diversity and innovation, where you are leading compared to the rest of Eastern Europe,” said LohMirmand.
She specifically praised the results of Serbian startups, noting that one of them took third place at GITEX in Singapore, considered the most competitive market in the field of innovation and artificial intelligence.
“Your teams and products inspire us to expand into new global ecosystems. We will continue to collaborate and promote your startups around the world,” LohMirmand stated.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/IMG_4612.jpg" id="image-tag-1747985676877" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1700"></div>

 GITEX Global Deserves a Partner Like Serbia

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) welcomed a delegation from Nigeria’s National Institute for Security Studies (NISS), visiting Serbia to explore its economic potential and business environment.
The delegation was received by Mihailo Vesović, Deputy President of CCIS, who emphasized the importance of strengthening economic cooperation between Serbia and Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy.
Discussions focused on collaboration opportunities in key sectors including energy, information technologies, and mechanical engineering.
Although Nigeria’s economy remains heavily reliant on oil exports, accounting for 90% of its exports and about 60% of budget revenues, the country is pursuing economic diversification. Efforts are focused on agriculture, FinTech, manufacturing, and telecommunications.
As part of a global benchmarking initiative, Nigeria selected 19 countries to serve as case studies for its diversification strategy. Serbia was recognized for its strong macroeconomic management, investment growth, and economic performance.
According to Serbia’s Statistical Office, bilateral trade between Serbia and Nigeria reached $22.3 million in 2024, with Serbian exports accounting for $21.5 million. In Q1 2025, trade volume tripled compared to the same period last year, reaching $4.8 million, driven primarily by a surge in Serbian exports.

​Nigerian Delegation Visits Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia – Serbia as a Model of Good Practice

Thanks to its strong cooperation and successful participation in major tech exhibitions, Serbia has been selected as the partner country at GITEX Global in Dubai, one of the world’s largest technology events. The announcement was made by Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), in a live appearance from Berlin on the morning program of Radio Television of Serbia (RTS).
“This is a major recognition for us. It confirms that, over years of collaboration, Serbia has been recognized as a country that creates high-quality solutions and whose innovative companies can compete&mdash;not just in Europe or the region, but globally,” Čadež stated. He is currently leading a Serbian business delegation at GITEX EUROPE 2025 in Berlin, where 22 Serbian startups are presenting their solutions at the national pavilion from May 21–23.
According to Čadež, these types of expos are a unique opportunity for Serbian companies to showcase their innovations, gain access to investors, and enter new markets. He emphasized that the main goal is connecting Serbia’s innovation-driven economy with traditional industry, which is essential for competitiveness and survival in global markets.
“It’s important for innovative companies to grow big enough to offer their solutions to large, traditional industries&mdash;those are the systems that need to stay competitive globally,” Čadež explained.
In an era where new technologies level the playing field between large and small, developed and developing countries, creativity and innovation are what stand out. “If you're looking for fast, creative, and high-quality digital solutions&mdash;whether for your company, your product, or your operations&mdash;Serbia is the right place,” Čadež affirmed.
Responding to a question about the atmosphere at the fair and interest in Serbian companies, Čadež shared that three Serbian startups made it to the semifinals of the competition for top solutions&mdash;a great success in itself. The Serbian pavilion has been a hub of continuous meetings with investors and major companies interested in innovation.
Reflecting on recent business agreements reached at GITEX Asia in Singapore, he noted that international outreach is essential for Serbian startups to scale their solutions for global markets.
“This is exactly what the CCIS is doing&mdash;through GITEX, Web Summit, and other platforms and programs. Through the ‘Scale Up’ program, we help startups develop their products, connect early with traditional industries, test their solutions, and, if successful, scale them up,” he explained.
In parallel, CCIS works with the Serbian government on creating a supportive digitalization framework. Čadež highlighted that Serbian startups can access the State Data Center and supercomputers to test their solutions&mdash;something only a few countries in Europe offer.
“The new innovation ecosystem doesn’t just mean giving someone a workspace&mdash;it means providing the infrastructure and connecting them with business partners,” he said.
He also spoke about organizing GITEX within EXPO 2027 in Belgrade and efforts to establish Belgrade as a global hub for the world’s top tech companies.
Regarding cooperation with Germany, Čadež noted that the recent change in government has opened up opportunities for stronger collaboration, not only through new investments but also in addressing global challenges in energy, modernization, and digital transformation.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/DSC00356.jpg" id="image-tag-1747916035905" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1696"></div>

 Serbia selected to be the Partner Country at GITEX Global in Dubai

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, as the license holder of WTC Belgrade (World Trade Center Belgrade), and the company MDC d.o.o. Sarajevo, the license holder of WTC Sarajevo, signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation and strengthening capacities to support export-oriented companies from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Memorandum was signed by Mihailo Vesović, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, and Edin Sefo, Director of MDC d.o.o. Sarajevo. Through this partnership, both parties become part of a broader cooperation platform within the global World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) network, to promote international trade and attract foreign investments more effectively.
The Memorandum foresees the joint organization of business forums, trade fairs, and networking events, as well as visits of business delegations and the organization of B2B meetings. The partners will utilize their international networks to support attracting foreign investment projects and enable companies from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to participate in international events.
The Memorandum also includes the exchange of information on market trends, current regulations, business environments, and promotional materials, as well as the joint development of a platform for providing international trade services in one place. It also envisions mutual coordination and support in addressing urgent economic and trade challenges.
This agreement reaffirms both parties' commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and international positioning, with the aim of creating a more favorable environment for economic development and export growth.

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Memorandum of Understanding Signed Between WTC Belgrade and WTC Sarajevo

This week, Serbian companies, with the support of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) and the Development Agency of Serbia, are showcasing their products and services at three major international trade fairs in Amsterdam, London, and Berlin.
At the PLMA Private Label Trade Show in Amsterdam (May 20–21), 36 Serbian companies – 28 from the food sector and 8 from non-food industries – are participating under the slogan “Your Name, Our Quality”. In two national pavilions, they are exhibiting a wide range of products, including frozen and dried fruits, low-calorie jams, granola, wine, instant noodles, chocolate, cosmetics, household chemicals, paper packaging, and dietary supplements.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/IMG-20250520-WA0022.jpg" id="image-tag-1747744215970" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1691"></div>
Meanwhile, at the London Wine Fair (May 19–21), Serbia is represented for the second time with a national stand (B-50), featuring wines from nine wineries: Doja, Šapat, Erdevik, Deurić, Vinčić, Aleksandrović, Panjković, BT Winery, and Matalj. A key focus is also the promotion of Wine Vision by Open Balkan as a major regional platform for wine industry promotion.
Starting May 21, 22 Serbian startups will debut at GITEX Europe 2025 in Berlin – the European edition of one of the world’s leading tech events. These companies will present cutting-edge solutions in AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, green tech, fintech, edtech, telecom, and commerce, aiming to connect with international investors and markets.
For more details and company profiles follow links bellow:&nbsp;
<a href="https://fairs.pks.rs/plma-international-2025/">Check exhibitors from&nbsp;PLMA</a>
<a href="https://fairs.pks.rs/london-wine-fair-2025/">Check exhibitors for the London Wine Fair</a><a href="https://fairs.pks.rs/gitex-europe-2025/">Check exhibitors for&nbsp;GITEX Europe</a>

Serbian Companies at Leading International Trade Fairs in Amsterdam, London, and Berlin

Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and a member of the Eurochambres delegation, met today in Brussels with EU Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Marta Kós. They discussed the challenges facing the Western Balkans on its path toward integration into the EU Single Market and full EU membership.
The Eurochambres delegation, which included presidents of chambers of commerce from candidate and potential candidate countries, was led by Vladimir Dlouhý, President of Eurochambres.
According to Čadež, the meeting with Commissioner Kós was very constructive, covering important issues for regional economies, particularly the integration of Western Balkan economies into the EU Single Market ahead of full membership.
As Čadež explained, integration involves several elements – from joint border management, exchange and harmonization of customs documents and certificates, to other collaborative activities – without which the Western Balkans cannot be fully included in the EU Single Market.
“We already have all of this prepared, but what’s missing is motivation from various sectors of the European Commission – customs, energy, trade – to show more willingness to support the Western Balkans and resolve the challenges the region faces on its path toward EU integration. That’s where we requested support and assistance, and the Commissioner understood why this is crucial,” Čadež emphasized.
He added that the free movement of goods is not only important for the Balkan economies but also for European industry, as losses are measured in hundreds of millions of euros annually simply because the necessary documentation for the free flow of goods is not harmonized, leading to long border delays.
“This is a loss for all of us – especially in a world where customs duties have become a geopolitical issue. You must expand your market, and right here in the heart of Europe, you still haven’t figured out how to properly integrate the Western Balkans into the EU Single Market – to make it equal, just like any other part of the Union in terms of economy and economic dynamics,” Čadež stated from Brussels.
Eurochambres President Vladimir Dlouhý said the business community strongly believes that enlargement, strengthening of ties, and leveraging the advantages of the EU Single Market are extremely important for candidate countries.
“If we truly deepen economic ties with Western Balkan countries – countries like Serbia – it could have positive political consequences, but most importantly, it would bring economic progress, to the benefit of both sides,” Dlouhý concluded.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/Вкадимир Длоухи_960x537.jpg" id="image-tag-1747726228619" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1689"></div>

Čadež: Constructive Discussion with Marta Kos – The Western Balkans Belong on the EU Single Market

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), in cooperation with the Development Agency of Serbia (RAS), will support the international promotion of Serbian companies at two prestigious global events this May: GITEX EUROPE 2025 in Berlin and the London Wine Fair 2025.
GITEX EUROPE 2025 | Berlin | May 21–23, 2025 For the first time, the globally renowned GITEX GLOBAL technology fair is launching its European edition, and Serbia will be part of this milestone event. A delegation of Serbian startup companies will exhibit their solutions at the national stand of Serbia, located in Hall 3.1 at Messe Berlin, covering a 108 m² space.
GITEX EUROPE connects global tech leaders, governments, investors, and innovators. A key event highlight is North Star Europe, the largest European platform for startups and investors, offering Serbian participants a unique opportunity to present their innovations, secure partnerships, and explore new markets for digital growth.
 
<a href="https://fairs.pks.rs/gitex-europe-2025/">GET IN TOUCH WITH SERBIAN STARTUPS HERE</a>
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London Wine Fair 2025 | London | May 19–21, 2025 For the second consecutive year, Serbia will participate with a national stand at one of Europe’s most prestigious wine exhibitions – the London Wine Fair. This event, which has been a central meeting point for the international wine trade for over 40 years, attracts thousands of buyers from bars, restaurants, supermarkets, and distribution networks across the globe.
The participation of Serbian wine producers presents an opportunity to introduce premium local brands to new markets, boost exports, and strengthen international partnerships. Exhibitors will engage in three days of intensive networking, education, and brand showcasing in one of the most influential wine capitals of the world.
“By supporting the international visibility of Serbian startups and wine producers at these flagship events, we are reinforcing Serbia’s position as a country of innovation, quality, and global ambition,” stated the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia.
 
<a href="https://fairs.pks.rs/london-wine-fair-2025/">CONTACT OUR WINE PRODUCERS HERE</a>

Serbian Companies to Showcase Innovation and Quality at GITEX EUROPE in Berlin and London Wine Fair 2025

As part of the visit by a Serbian business delegation to the Saudi Food Show, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from May 12 to 14, 2025, representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), together with the Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia to Saudi Arabia, Dragan Bisenic, met with the President of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, Hassan bin Mujib Al-Huwaizi, to discuss plans related to the operations of the Saudi-Serbian Business Council, which serves as a platform for further intensifying economic cooperation between the two countries.
The Federation of Saudi Chambers is the umbrella organization bringing together 28 regional chambers and is a key partner for connecting Serbian businesses with the Saudi market.
The Serbian section of the Council has been formed and includes 22 companies from sectors such as agriculture, food industry, construction, metal and defense industries, and other economic branches. The Saudi section is expected to be established soon, after which the first joint session of the Council will be held.
In the previous year, 2024, the total foreign trade in goods between Serbia and Saudi Arabia reached USD 152.6 million, representing a significant increase of 58.2% compared to 2023, when it amounted to USD 96.4 million. During that period, Serbia achieved exports worth USD 62.8 million, marking a 30% increase compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, imports from Saudi Arabia reached USD 89.7 million, a sharp rise of 85.3%. Serbia's main imports from Saudi Arabia are chemical industry products, while Serbia ranks as the fourth-largest exporter of apples to the Saudi market.
As emphasized during the meeting, trade between the two countries has been continuously growing, with substantial room for further enhancement of bilateral economic cooperation.
The market of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is currently one of the most promising in the Middle East for Serbian companies.
The Kingdom is actively implementing a process of economic diversification, investing significantly in sectors recognized as key drivers of economic growth&mdash;renewable energy, agriculture, information and communication technologies (ICT), and tourism&mdash;areas in which Serbia holds pronounced comparative advantages, along with potential in other industrial sectors.<div class="article-photo"><img src="https://en-api.pks.rs/storage/assets/IMG-20250513-WA0003.jpg" id="image-tag-1747211611330" data-image-alignment="article-photo" data-image-size-id="original" data-asset-id="1684"></div>

​  Saudi Arabian Market Among the Most Promising for Serbian Companies

The leading international trade fair “The Saudi Food Show” opened today in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, with 15 Serbian companies from the agri-food sector presenting their export offerings.
Organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and the Development Agency of Serbia, the companies will exhibit within two national pavilions until May 14. The exhibitors include: ITN Group (Belgrade), Master Food (Užice), Master Fruits (Belgrade), Laki (Arilje), Budimka (Požega), Agranela (Valjevo), Agropartner (Lučani), Candy Rush (Belgrade), Frigoonice (Niš), Kinoko (Donji Matejevac), Mixer Produkt (Aleksandrovac), Mirax Agrar (Belgrade), PIP Food Group (Čenej), ZA Fruit (Valjevo), and Podgorina Voće (Osečina).
Serbian Ambassador to Riyadh, Dragan Bisenic, visited the Serbian exhibitors and discussed opportunities for doing business in the Saudi market, its potential, advantages, and challenges.
These companies offer a wide range of products including frozen conventional and organic fruits, fresh apples, organic jams (with and without sugar), juices, freeze-dried, dried and chocolate-coated fruits, dried and frozen mushrooms, confectionery, fruit and creamy bases for the ice cream industry, bakery, pastry and confectionery ingredients, as well as fruit purees and baby food.
The fair features nine industry segments and brings together producers of dairy products, oils, grains, fruits and vegetables, meat and meat products, frozen and ready-made foods, as well as coffee and tea.
This is the third edition of the event, held at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center &mdash; the premier business platform connecting exhibitors with representatives of leading retail chains, importers, and distributors.
Program segments are focused on showcasing contemporary trends in the food industry.

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Spanning an exhibition space of 244,000 m², the show hosts more than 1,000 exhibitors from 97 countries, and expects over 25,000 professional visitors. Alongside Serbia, other national pavilions feature countries such as Turkey, China, Russia, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Thailand, the Netherlands, Cyprus, Greece, Austria, Poland, Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, Portugal, Singapore, India, Pakistan, Syria, the United States, and Canada.
The fair was officially opened by the Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Ibrahim Al-Khoraye.
Exhibitors and visitors have access to the “Tawasul Meetings Programme” platform for organizing business meetings and commercial negotiations, enabling pre-scheduled appointments and direct contact with potential partners.
The Saudi Arabian market is considered one of the most attractive in the Middle East and a significant opportunity for Serbian companies, particularly in the export of frozen and fresh fruits and vegetables. As one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, Saudi Arabia is strategically located at the intersection of three continents and is rich in natural resources.
In an effort to reduce its dependence on oil and diversify its economy, Saudi Arabia has launched the ambitious “Vision 2030” program, which includes a range of economic and financial reforms, strengthening of the private and tertiary sectors, and the promotion of sustainable development.
Saudi Arabia has a young and educated population of over 34 million people, more than 50% of whom are under the age of 25. The country is the largest consumer of dairy products among Gulf states, and total spending on organic, gourmet, and health foods is expected to exceed $27 billion.

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Photo: Zorana Delić