U.S. Economic Ode Chairman Seeks Eliminating Tax Without reciprocity

The American Economic Oda in Kosovo (OEAK) requires the removal of the tax from the Kosovo government unconditionally. Until it says that failing to establish reciprocity will enable negotiations with Serbia and the path towards a final agreement between the two states.

OECH Chairman Arian Zeka, in an interview for Online Economy, says establishing reciprocity is a political decision, and this will bring consequences to private companies and consumers.

Zeka argued that if reciprocity is introduced it will affect poor neighbourly relations.

“Ende does not have a government decision on removing the fee is just a government cabinet warning. We don't support any tariff barrier or table. We have expressed concern over the Kosovo government's decision to impose tariff measures. This does not contribute to poor neighbourly relations. The consequences of such decisions are carried on the part of private companies and consumers who will pay the price for any tax measure”.

“We have our reserves as far as reciprocity is concerned, we share the position with the US Administration and other international partners that the tariff should be lifted unconditionally. Whatever barrier is imposed by other states, whether signatories of the CEFTA agreement should be discussed through mechanisms that have been envisioned with these agreements for addressing the contexts for eliminating any barrier”, Zeka said.

Among other things, Zeka stressed that after reaching the agreement, foreign investors who have left because of conflicts and instability would return.

“We will share the same demand and position that both states move towards a final agreement. The effects and benefits of which will affect businesses, the private sector and create opportunities for new jobs. The entire Western Balkans region to remove the negative perception that foreign investors have due to continued conflicts or instability”, Zeka has said.

The United States has consistently demanded that Kosovo lift the tax on Serbia, unconditionally, while already Prime Minister Kurti is insisting on its replacement with reciprocity.