Held in the authentic wine shop La Bottiglia, the Made in Italy event recently brought the spirit of Italy to life through its flavours. Organised by the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, it provided insights into the economic as well as cultural ties between the two countries.
EUpravo zato attended the event to gain first-hand understanding of how the Italian business model fits into local conditions and what opportunities it brings for the Serbian economy. In discussions with representatives of the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, we learned more about investments, institutional support, and their vision for future cooperation.
A stable partnership with growth potential
When asked about the current economic relations between Italy and Serbia, they told us that the relationship is stable, with both large investors and small entrepreneurs in focus – and a growing number of companies arriving from Italy.
How many Italian companies currently operate in Serbia, and is there an expected increase in that number in the coming years?
"Economic relations between Italy and Serbia are stable, dynamic, and based on years of mutual trust. Italy ranks among Serbia’s most important economic partners, both in terms of trade volume and the number of investors. Over 1,200 Italian companies are currently operating in Serbia, and that number is constantly growing. We’re especially seeing increased interest from small and medium-sized enterprises looking for reliable partners and efficient logistics capacities in the region. The outlook for the coming period is positive, with continued expansion of Italian business presence across various sectors."
Although the Serbian market is attractive, certain challenges remain. That’s why we asked about both the advantages and the areas in need of improvement.
What are the biggest advantages for Italian companies doing business in Serbia, and what are the key obstacles they face?
“There are many advantages: geographic proximity, competitive costs, a well-qualified workforce, and, crucially, a historical connection and mutual understanding of business culture. Serbia offers attractive conditions for manufacturing and exports, especially to markets with which it has free trade agreements. On the other hand, companies still face challenges such as administrative procedures and a lack of specialised staff in technical fields."
Support for small and medium-sized enterprises
To strengthen and expand cooperation, the Chamber plays a key role as both mediator and mentor for smaller businesses entering the market.
How does the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce support small and medium-sized enterprises in placing Italian products on the Serbian market?
"Our focus includes small and medium-sized companies, which often lack sufficient resources to independently research and enter a new market. The Chamber provides them with relevant contacts, business meetings, sector analyses, and support in legal regulations, customs policy, and marketing visibility. Through projects such as themed weeks dedicated to Italian cuisine, design, and technology, we create opportunities for concrete product placement and direct engagement with Serbian consumers and distributors."
One such project is Made in Italy. How do events like these contribute to strengthening cultural and economic ties between the two countries?
"Made in Italy is not just a label of origin – it is a value framework that encompasses quality, aesthetics, and innovation. Events that promote this concept enable the presentation of Italian industry and culture in a broader sense, while also opening up concrete business opportunities. They bring together Italian and Serbian stakeholders – companies, institutions, and citizens – thereby deepening both cultural and economic connections between the two countries."
European Integration
For Serbia, the path to the European Union is a priority, and the country is currently in the accession process. Italian investors are following this political development but base their decisions on market realities.
How do Italian companies view Serbia’s EU accession? Does it influence their investment decisions?
"Italian companies present on the Serbian market primarily base their decisions on practical business conditions – availability of labour, regulatory framework, stability of the business environment, and opportunities for growth. European integration is a broader political and institutional process whose effects investors assess from a long-term perspective."
Which opportunities would you highlight as currently the most promising for expanding cooperation?
"There are several areas of interest for Italian businesses. These include, above all, energy and renewables, the agri-food sector, logistics, manufacturing, and IT services."
