Title: European Union Extends Trade Preferences to Macedonia and Serbia Amid Anti-Fraud Measures

Brussels Announces Extension of Exceptional Trade Measures

In an effort to boost economic stability and cooperation in the Western Balkans, the European Union (EU) has proposed amending its existing trade regulations to extend exceptional trade measures to Macedonia and Serbia. This move comes amid ongoing efforts to combat financial fraud and strengthen regional cooperation.

Proposed Amendments to Council Regulation (EC) No 2007/2000

The EU Commission’s proposal, unveiled on [insert date], aims to:

Extend the autonomous trade preferences granted under Council Regulation (EC) No 2007/2000 to Macedonia and Serbia.
Remove Macedonia from the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP), and make adjustments to tariff quotas for certain fishery products.

Macedonia’s Provisional Trade Preferences

Currently linked to the EU by a Cooperation Agreement, Macedonia will be granted provisional improved trade preferences until the entry into force of a Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA). The Cooperation Agreement’s trade provisions will be suspended, enabling the EU to apply the autonomous trade preferences on an interim basis.

Access to EU Trade Preferences for Serbia and Montenegro

Serbia and Montenegro will gain full access to the EU’s trade preferences, superseding limited concessions for Montenegrin aluminum products. Kosovo will continue to be treated as a separate beneficiary for the autonomous trade preferences.

Contingent on Economic Reforms and Regional Cooperation

The extension of these trade preferences is contingent upon both countries’ readiness to engage in effective economic reforms and regional cooperation. Closer cooperation between all relevant authorities within the Federations and between the entities and UNMIK is required for full implementation.

Request from the General Affairs Council in October 2000

This proposal follows a request from the General Affairs Council in October 2000 for the Commission to submit a proposal on extending the benefits of the exceptional trade measures to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The aim is to promote economic stability and contribute to the ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts in the region.

Part of a Larger EU Strategy

The proposal, still requiring Council approval, forms part of the EU’s broader strategy to support the Western Balkans during their transition towards EU accession.

Council Regulation (EC) No 2007/2000
[OJ L 240, 23.09.2000, p. 1](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=OJ:L:2000:240:1:EN: PDF)
OJ L 240, 23.09.2000, p.1.2