Findings from the latest Barometer conducted by the Regional Cooperation Council show that businesses across the Western Balkans broadly support the removal and reduction of trade barriers in the region, with Kosovo ranking among the most pro-free-trade economies.
According to the survey, around 70% of businesses across six Western Balkan economies consider the elimination of trade barriers “very important” or “important,” highlighting strong regional demand for easier cross-border commerce.
Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina show strongest support
In Albania, around 75% of surveyed companies see trade facilitation as crucial for business growth, while only a small minority view it as irrelevant. Business leaders strongly support removing customs and administrative obstacles, seeing the region as a key opportunity for expansion.
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, support is even higher, with approximately 88% of businesses backing the removal of trade barriers. The findings suggest near-consensus within the business community, reflecting long-standing regional trade links despite political and structural challenges.
Serbia shows higher skepticism
In Serbia, only about half of businesses support trade liberalization in the region, while 28% say it is not important for their operations. This reflects a more cautious stance, with many Serbian companies oriented toward the European Union market rather than regional trade.
Kosovo strongly supports regional openness
Kosovo stands out with strong pro-integration sentiment. About 60% of businesses describe trade barrier removal as “very important,” while another 11% consider it “important.” However, 17% believe it has no relevance to their operations, showing a degree of polarization within the business community. Despite this, support for regional economic integration remains dominant.
North Macedonia and Montenegro also largely supportive
In North Macedonia, 67% of businesses support reducing trade barriers, while in Montenegro, about 68% express positive views toward regional trade integration. Both economies show a generally favorable attitude toward deeper economic cooperation in the Western Balkans.
Overall, the RCC findings highlight a strong regional trend toward economic integration, despite differing national perspectives and levels of skepticism.
