Category: Western Balkans
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Blockage of freight border crossings between the Balkans and Schengen countries announced for January 26th.
Truck drivers from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina plan to block all border crossings for freight to Schengen countries on January 26 due to issues with the new Entry/Exit System. This blockage may also impact Macedonian factories delivering goods to the Schengen area or the UK, although passenger traffic should…
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Belgium among the world’s 20 safest countries in 2025, North Macedonia 2nd in the Western Balkans
The Global Peace Index 2025 ranks Belgium 16th and North Macedonia 51st in peacefulness among 163 countries. The report highlights a significant decline in global peace due to increased conflict deaths, geopolitical tensions, and social fragmentation, marking a transformation in the global order reminiscent of the Cold War era.
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Exporting CO2 becomes regulated towards the EU or US. Join the webinar about CBAM
The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) introduces new reporting duties for businesses exporting to or importing from the EU, targeting sectors like cement and complex steel products. GIZ North Macedonia offers an online course to help companies navigate these regulations, scheduled for May 22, 2025. Registration details are provided.
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US Reciprocal tariff update announced
The US has introduced reciprocal tariffs alongside existing ones, with rates varying by country: EU 20%, North Macedonia 33%, Albania 10%, Bosnia and Herzegovina 36%, Kosovo 10%, Montenegro 10%, and Serbia 38%. These tariffs are based on trade deficits and minimum rates for all nations.
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CE Marking Platform to facilitate exports
WB6 CIF has launched the CE Marking Platform, aiding SMEs in the Western Balkans to acquire EU certificates by complying with health, safety, and environmental standards. The platform offers product guidance under applicable directives and includes detailed instructions. A training session is scheduled for December 11, 2024, in North Macedonia.
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Assistance to place your products on EU Markets
WB6 CIF invites small and medium companies (SMEs) from Western Balkans Six (WB6) region to participate in Technical Assistance program for entering the European and global markets. 70 selected SMEs from the WB6 region will have the chance to get assistance to place their products on EU markets (with focus…