Belgian-Macedonian Business Club

In the summer of 2013, I came for the first time to Macedonia as a tourist, not knowing anything about the country. Like 90 % of the tourists, I went with my family to Ohrid and discovered Ohrid lake and surroundings. I was so touched by this place, that we came back the next year, and all the following years. This was the start of my life-changing journey.

In the years following, and thanks to local contacts, I found out that Macedonia had a lot more to offer than only tourism. Specifically for my business in the plastic injection moulding for the automotive industry, I met highly qualified mould makers and plastic producers, who were able to deliver the automotive quality standards. Our collaboration resulted in the opening of an office in Ohrid, in May 2016. Since 2019, I can call myself a citizen of Ohrid.

During the years, I got the opportunity to expand my network all around Macedonia and to meet people from different sectors and functions. This made me realise that the country has a lot of potential, not only for foreign investments, but also for the export of local products, and so much more. I asked myself how it’s possible that only a few people know about this country? And what can I do to change this?

The first step was to gather the Belgian entrepreneurs who were already present in Macedonia and to share information and experiences. What started as a WhatsApp group, quickly changed into the plan to start a business club. With the approval and support of our ambassador, Mr Frédéric Meurice, we were able to realise our plan and to be officially registered as an association under the name: Belgian-Macedonian Business Club.

I am grateful to be elected as president of the BMBC. Together with the board members, our important task is to be the link between Belgium and North Macedonia and to improve our economic and cultural relations.

I would like to thank the board members, the honorary consuls and our advisor for their support and contribution to the success of the Belgian-Macedonian Business Club.