Sharjah–Serbia Business Forum Strengthens Economic Cooperation

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) recently hosted the “Sharjah–Serbia Business Forum” at its headquarters to discuss ways to strengthen economic relations and boost investment cooperation with Serbia. The forum is part of SCCI’s ongoing efforts to enhance trade and investment ties between Sharjah and international markets.

The event comes after the UAE and Serbia signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which came into effect last June. This agreement aims to create a roadmap for trade, investment, and economic collaboration between the two countries. It is expected to contribute around US$351 million to the UAE’s GDP by 2032, reflecting the growing importance of bilateral relations.

The forum was attended by several senior officials and business leaders, including Sheikh Majid Faisal Khalid Al Qasemi, First Vice Chairman of SCCI; Stevan Nikčević, State Secretary at Serbia’s Ministry of Foreign and Internal Trade; and Mihailo Vesović, Deputy President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia. Other attendees included Humaid Mohammed bin Salem, Secretary-General of the Federation of UAE Chambers; Vladimir Marić, Serbia’s Ambassador to the UAE; and key representatives from the local business community and the Serbian delegation.

In his opening remarks, Sheikh Majid welcomed the Serbian delegation and described the forum as a strategic step to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties. He highlighted that the UAE is Serbia’s main partner in the Gulf, accounting for over 55% of the country’s total trade in the region. Non-oil trade between the two countries reached US$121.4 million in 2024, showing a doubling of trade compared to 2021, with projections indicating it could reach US$500 million in the coming years.

Sheikh Majid also emphasized the importance of Sharjah as an investment destination. He explained that SCCI provides business platforms, supports knowledge exchange, and facilitates joint ventures that align with sustainable growth goals. He expressed confidence that the forum would help identify new investment opportunities and further strengthen cooperation between the UAE and Serbia.

Stevan Nikčević highlighted Serbia’s ongoing economic reforms, the government’s investment-support programs, and new regulations designed to attract foreign investment. Meanwhile, Mihailo Vesović praised the strong relationship between Serbia and the UAE and emphasized Serbia’s commitment to building long-term partnerships in sectors such as advanced technology, agriculture, and manufacturing. He also mentioned Serbia’s recent milestone of obtaining its first-ever investment-grade credit rating and being a leading recipient of foreign direct investment in the Western Balkans.

The forum featured presentations and panel discussions showcasing Sharjah’s investment opportunities, infrastructure, and business incentives. Representatives from Serbia’s Development Agency outlined key investment sectors and the incentives available to foreign investors. Sharjah’s FDI office also presented services and support offered to investors looking to establish or expand operations in the emirate.

Networking sessions and one-on-one meetings allowed business leaders from both countries to explore partnerships, discuss logistics, and optimize trade opportunities. The forum emphasized direct communication between the private sectors of Sharjah and Serbia, aiming to turn government agreements into successful investment projects.

The Sharjah–Serbia Business Forum highlighted the growing economic cooperation between the two countries, showcased opportunities in multiple sectors, and reinforced Sharjah’s position as a vibrant hub for international investment.