Bosnian transporters paralyze borders: Demands for "90/180 rule" reform and excise relief

The core of the dispute lies in the severe challenges faced by Bosnia and Herzegovina drivers when entering and operating within the EU. Authorities in member states are conducting daily checks of stay records, leading to the deportation of professional drivers who have exceeded the 90-day limit within a 180-day period while performing their duties.

"Our primary demand, coordinated with drivers from Serbia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, is a definitive resolution regarding the stay and work of professional drivers in the EU. Specifically, we are calling for an amendment to the current 90/180-day rule," the Consortium stated.

Impact of the 90-day rule on logistics

The Consortium pointed out that current regulations fail to distinguish between professional drivers transporting goods and tourists visiting the EU. They warned that the situation is reaching a breaking point as the strict implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) is scheduled to begin in April 2026. Under this system, any driver exceeding the stay limit will be turned back at the border, potentially triggering a total collapse of regional goods transport.

"We have been highlighting this issue to the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina for an extended period. We expect all competent institutions to take urgent steps to negotiate a model with EU representatives that allows our drivers to operate without these obstacles," the group emphasized.

Unfulfilled domestic promises

Beyond international regulations, the protesters are demanding that domestic authorities honor previous commitments made in September 2025. Key demands include:

• The return of a portion of fuel excise duties, mirroring models used in the EU and neighboring countries.
• The urgent finalization of agreements with EU states regarding VAT refunds.
• A 50 percent discount on highway tolls across Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• A reduction in unnecessary delays at border crossings and customs terminals.

The Consortium noted that despite these being within the direct jurisdiction of domestic officials, no progress has been made.

"Nothing promised has been implemented. Since the new wave of protests began on Monday, January 26, 2026, no government representatives have contacted us or invited us for discussions to resolve the issues that forced this action," the "Logistika BiH" Consortium concluded.