The Bulgarian-Macedonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) was officially inaugurated on Friday during a ceremony held at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). The event brought together numerous dignitaries, including the Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry, Anton Kostadinov, the Ambassador of the Republic of North Macedonia, Agneza Rusi-Popovska, and key business representatives from both nations. Atanas Radev will chair the newly established bilateral chamber.
During the proceedings, officials emphasized the strategic importance of deepening economic ties between the two neighboring countries. Kostadinov noted that while the trade turnover currently stands at EUR 1.3 billion, this figure is below the potential of the economic relationship. He advocated for constructive dialogue among business organizations to boost cooperation in key sectors such as energy, construction, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and agriculture.
Ambassador Rusi-Popovska highlighted Bulgaria’s role as a crucial trading partner and gateway to the European Union for North Macedonia’s integration process. She stressed that while trade relations are stable, boosting investment activity is necessary, particularly in energy, manufacturing, transport, and digital services. Furthermore, she pointed to insufficient infrastructure as a barrier to realizing full-scale economic potential.
Ivan Todorov of the BCCI also underscored the need for improved connectivity across road, rail, and air transport. To advance these goals, the BMCCI hosted its inaugural forum, aimed at generating joint venture opportunities and strengthening ties with state and municipal institutions. The chamber plans to organize two such forums annually—one in each country—to further promote commerce and industry collaboration.
Topics: #chamber #commerce #industry
This new chamber appears to be a significant development for fostering trade between Bulgaria and Macedonia.