Oct 8, 2024 – Kosovo has started implementing its decision to lift the ban on imports from Serbia, a significant move following intense international pressure. This comes just one day after the Kosovo government announced the ban’s removal, amid concerns that its continuation could hinder Kosovo’s participation in vital regional processes, such as the Berlin Process.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has stated that manual security checks will be conducted on incoming goods until X-ray scanners are operational. This step marks the beginning of a new chapter in trade relations between Kosovo and Serbia, which have been fraught with tension since the ban was imposed in June 2023.
The ban was enacted as a security measure after the arrest of three members of the Kosovo police by Serbian forces, a situation that drew strong criticism and calls for resolution from Western officials. U.S. ambassador to Kosovo, Jeff Hovenier, expressed his satisfaction with the government’s decision, stating it represents “an important step in the right direction” for Kosovo’s European integration efforts.
The European Union has also welcomed the lifting of the ban, underscoring the importance of free trade within the Western Balkans. It emphasized that compliance with the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA) is crucial for the region’s economic stability and growth.
Serbian authorities have reacted positively, noting that the removal of the ban will alleviate tensions and benefit the lives of Kosovo Serbs. The Kosovo government previously faced mounting diplomatic pressure, particularly from Germany, to reverse the ban, which was viewed as contrary to CEFTA principles.
As part of the negotiations, Kosovo has been offered the chance to represent itself in CEFTA under its own name rather than through the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK). Discussions regarding the provision of scanners for imports from Serbia are expected to take place at the CEFTA Joint Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday in Belgrade.
