The United States believes there are significant opportunities for economic cooperation with Kosovo across several strategic sectors. Washington emphasizes that removing trade barriers would further strengthen these ties.
Key Sectors for Partnership
“We see opportunities for economic cooperation in Kosovo in several sectors, including energy, defense, infrastructure, information and communication technology, and cybersecurity. Removing barriers to American exports would result in increased trade,” a spokesperson for the US Embassy in Pristina told Radio Free Europe.
The embassy encouraged both the public and private sectors in Kosovo to continue exploring economic opportunities and investments in the American market. It also urged the Kosovo Government to foster a transparent and stable environment for US businesses looking to expand into Kosovo.
This stance aligns with Kosovo’s efforts to deepen economic cooperation with the US, particularly following President Vjosa Osmani’s visit to Washington this month. During meetings with high-ranking American officials, including Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, President Osmani highlighted the importance of establishing a new economic partnership, focusing on energy, defense, and information technology. Radio Free Europe learned that the possibility of cooperation in the mineral resources sector was also discussed.
Economic Experts Support Vision, Emphasize Rule of Law
Economic experts support this vision, noting that Kosovo’s geographic position, young and educated workforce, and competitive fiscal policies make it an attractive destination for foreign investors. However, they stressed the need for deep reforms in the rule of law and economic policies.
“Kosovo must further commit to strengthening the rule of law, avoiding actions that could increase legal unpredictability, and enhancing investor protection through improving the efficiency of the courts,” Arian Zeka, head of the American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo, told Radio Free Europe on July 18.
Trade Tariffs Remain a Hurdle Amidst Political Deadlock
Currently, Kosovo applies a 10% tariff on goods imported from the US. In early April, President Osmani requested the Kosovo Government to suspend this tariff, following a similar tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump on imports from Kosovo. However, the tariff remains in effect.
President Osmani also stated that her office has prepared a draft law for the removal of the tariff, but its approval depends on the constitution of the new Assembly. The Assembly’s constitution has not yet been finalized due to political disagreements stemming from the February elections.
According to Kosovo Customs data, the value of imports from the US in 2024 reached over 105 million euros, while exports were approximately 39 million euros. The Investment and Enterprise Support Agency reports that US investments in Kosovo during 2024 totaled around 87 million euros.
The US Embassy spokesperson in Pristina underscored that stability and security in the region are crucial for economic prosperity. Citing Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, he added: “Our missions worldwide are ready to help foreign businesses and investors partner with our American public and private sector partners, leveraging our leading companies, technology, and workforce.”
