The Bulgarian-Macedonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) was officially 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; mayors and deputy mayors from Southwestern Bulgarian municipalities; 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 emphasized building connections between the two neighboring countries. Kostadinov stated that the economic cooperation between Bulgaria and North Macedonia is substantial, noting that the current trade turnover of EUR 1.3 billion is insufficient given the potential of their relationship. He identified sectors like energy, construction, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and agriculture as areas for enhanced cooperation, urging a pragmatic dialogue among business organizations.
Ambassador Rusi-Popovska characterized the event as a positive step toward unlocking mutual trade and economic potential. She highlighted Bulgaria’s role as a key trading partner and a gateway to the European Union for North Macedonia, linking deeper economic ties to North Macedonia’s EU integration. She also stressed the need to boost investment activity in sectors such as energy, manufacturing, transport, and digital services.
Ivan Todorov, Vice President of the BCCI, echoed the need for improved connectivity across road, rail, and air infrastructure. The BMCCI’s first initiative was a Bulgarian–Macedonian Business Forum, intended to generate joint venture opportunities and strengthen ties with state and municipal bodies. The chamber intends to host such forums twice annually, aiming to further the commerce and industry links through the chamber.
Topics: #chamber #commerce #industry
