The Bulgarian-Macedonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) was formally inaugurated last Friday during an event hosted 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 mayors, and business leaders from both nations. Atanas Radev will chair the newly formed bilateral chamber.
In his remarks, Radev emphasized building connections between the two neighboring countries. Kostadinov stated that the economic bridge between Bulgaria and North Macedonia is nearly complete, despite recent challenges. He stressed 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 sectors ripe for closer partnership, urging a pragmatic dialogue among the commerce sectors of both countries. Ambassador Rusi-Popovska, who initiated the chamber’s establishment, viewed the event as a positive step for trade potential. She noted that Bulgaria remains a key trading partner and a gateway to the EU for North Macedonia, linking deeper economic ties to North Macedonia’s integration process.
She urged increased investment in energy, manufacturing, transport, and digital services, citing inadequate infrastructure as a current hurdle. Ivan Todorov, Vice President of the BCCI, echoed the need for improved connectivity across road, rail, and air transport. The BMCCI immediately hosted its first forum, aimed at fostering joint ventures and cooperation.
The chamber plans to organize such forums annually in both countries to bolster industry relations.
Topics: #chamber #commerce #industry
