The Bulgarian-Macedonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) was formally launched on Friday during a ceremony held at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). Attendees included the Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry, Anton Kostadinov; the Ambassador of the Republic of North Macedonia to Bulgaria, Agneza Rusi-Popovska; local mayors and deputy mayors from Southwestern Bulgaria; the Chair of the Macedonian–Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce, Biljana Miteva; and business representatives from both nations. Atanas Radev will serve as the inaugural chair of the new bilateral chamber.
In his address, Radev advocated for strengthening ties between the two neighboring countries. Kostadinov stated that the economic cooperation between Bulgaria and North Macedonia is significant, noting that the current trade turnover of EUR 1.3 billion is “too small for the potential of our economic relations.” He identified energy, construction, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and agriculture as key sectors for enhanced partnership and called for constructive dialogue within the business community. Ambassador Rusi-Popovska highlighted Bulgaria’s role as a vital trading partner and a gateway to the European Union for North Macedonia, linking economic deepening to the latter’s European integration.
She noted the stability of trade while urging increased investment in sectors like manufacturing, transport, and digital services. Ivan Todorov, BCCI Vice President, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for improved infrastructure connectivity. The BMCCI’s inaugural event was a Bulgarian–Macedonian Business Forum, designed to foster joint ventures and cooperation.
The chamber plans to host two such forums annually—one in each country—to further bolster trade and industrial relations between the two nations.
Topics: #chamber #commerce #industry
