The Bulgarian-Macedonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) was officially launched on Friday during a ceremony hosted by the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). Attendees included Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Anton Kostadinov, the Ambassador of the Republic of North Macedonia to Bulgaria, Agneza Rusi-Popovska, local mayors, and business representatives from both nations. Atanas Radev will chair the newly formed bilateral chamber.
In his address, Radev emphasized building connections between the two neighboring countries. Kostadinov noted that the economic cooperation between Bulgaria and North Macedonia is substantial, though the current trade turnover of EUR 1.3 billion is considered insufficient given the potential. He identified key sectors for closer partnership, such as energy, construction, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and agriculture, advocating for constructive dialogue among business groups.
Ambassador Rusi-Popovska, who initiated the chamber’s establishment, viewed the launch as a positive step for unlocking trade potential. She stressed Bulgaria’s importance to North Macedonia, both as a neighbor and a gateway to the EU, linking economic deepening to North Macedonia’s integration process. She highlighted sectors like energy, manufacturing, transport, and digital services for increased cooperation, while noting that inadequate infrastructure limits full-scale economic ties.
Ivan Todorov, BCCI Vice President, echoed the need for better connectivity across road, rail, and air transport. The BMCCI immediately hosted its inaugural Bulgarian–Macedonian Business Forum, designed to foster joint ventures and cooperation. The chamber plans to organize such forums annually in both countries, aiming to strengthen overall commerce and industry ties.
Topics: #chamber #commerce #industry
