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 Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Anton Kostadinov, Ambassador Agneza Rusi-Popovska, local government representatives, and business leaders from both nations. Atanas Radev was named the chair of the new bilateral chamber.
In his address, Radev advocated for strengthening ties between the two neighboring countries. Kostadinov affirmed that the goals for economic cooperation and partnership across various sectors are clear. He noted that the current trade turnover between Bulgaria and North Macedonia, amounting to EUR 1.3 billion, is considered insufficient relative to the potential of the economic relationship.
He identified energy, construction, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and agriculture as key areas for closer cooperation. Ambassador Rusi-Popovska highlighted Bulgaria’s role as a vital trading partner and gateway to the European Union for North Macedonia, linking deeper economic integration to the region’s EU accession process. She emphasized that while trade has remained stable, boosting investment activity is necessary.
She pointed to energy, manufacturing, transport, and digital services as sectors needing enhanced cooperation, while noting that infrastructure gaps impede full economic development. Ivan Todorov, Vice President of the BCCI, also stressed the necessity of improving connectivity across road, rail, and air transport. Alongside the launch, the BMCCI hosted its inaugural Bulgarian–Macedonian Business Forum, intended to generate joint ventures and cooperation projects.
The chamber plans to organize two such forums annually, one in each country, to support the ongoing development of trade and industry between the nations.
Topics: #chamber #commerce #industry
