EU again calls for tax removal, reminds Kosovo of consequences

Reiterating their continued concern over the tax estimates it represents a clear violation of the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA).

Full statement:

The European Union Office/EU Special Representative and EU Mission Chiefs in Kosovo reiterate their continued concern over the 100% tax on goods from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

As already highlighted in many cases, this represents a clear violation of the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA), is contrary to the spirit of a Stabilisation Agreement. - Association and negatively affect regional cooperation.

The EU is Kosovo's largest donor, investor and trade partner. The tariff and non-tariff barriers in free trade, whether imposed by Kosovo or any of its neighbours, hinder the region's path towards a competitive market economy and make it less attractive as a place to invest.

The introduction of the tax has negatively affected the dialogue process with Serbia. Removing the tax would enable the quick resumption of this dialogue. The successful dialogue leading to a comprehensive and stable agreement will contribute to the stability of Kosovo and the entire region.

We are aware that the success of the dialogue depends on avoiding useless actions on both sides and recall that the EU has urged both sides to act accordingly; in this spirit, we urge the Kosovo government to clearly articulate the concrete steps it will take to enable the suspension of the fee so that regional co-operation can move forward. We also call on the Government to seriously review the European Commission's offer to help remove the non-tariff barriers facing Kosovo exports to the region”.