The Bulgarian-Macedonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) was formally launched last Friday during a ceremony at 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 government officials from Southwestern Bulgaria, the Chair of the Macedonian–Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce, Biljana Miteva, and business representatives from both nations. Atanas Radev was appointed as the inaugural chair of the new bilateral chamber.
In his address, Radev urged the strengthening of ties between the neighboring countries. Kostadinov stated that the economic bridge between Bulgaria and North Macedonia is nearly complete despite recent challenges. He emphasized that the current trade turnover of EUR 1.3 billion is insufficient given the potential for economic cooperation.
He identified energy, construction, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and agriculture as key sectors for deeper partnership and called for constructive dialogue among business organizations. Ambassador Rusi-Popovska, who initiated the chamber’s establishment, viewed the event as a positive step for unlocking trade potential. She noted Bulgaria’s role as a vital trading partner and gateway to the EU for North Macedonia, linking economic growth to its integration process.
She also stressed the need to boost investment and enhance cooperation in sectors such as energy, manufacturing, transport, and digital services. Ivan Todorov, Vice President of the BCCI, highlighted the necessity of improving connectivity across road, rail, and air links. The BMCCI’s first event, a Bulgarian–Macedonian Business Forum, aims to generate joint ventures and cooperation projects.
The chamber plans to host such forums twice yearly, once in each country, to bolster the commerce and industry relationship through the chamber.
Topics: #chamber #commerce #industry
