Serbia introduces steel import quotas on Bosnia, Foreign Trade Chamber urges action

According to FTCBiH, the Decree impacts Bosnian exports of ribbed concrete steel, hot-rolled wire rod in coils, and ribbed concrete steel bars. The measures utilize a tariff quota system over six months; once quotas are exhausted, a 50% customs duty will be applied. Quotas are divided into quarterly maximums, distributed on a "first-come, first-served" basis.

The Chamber expressed deep concern for Bosnian exporters, noting that the quotas do not reflect actual trade flows. The Serbian government based these limits on data from 2020–2024, whereas FTCBiH data shows that Bosnian exports in the first quarter of 2025 alone already exceeded the newly established quarterly limits. The Chamber argues that the cumulative volume of trade, regional distribution models, and the real market share of BiH producers were not fully considered.

Furthermore, introducing these restrictions at the end of a business year disrupts long-term contracts between Bosnian and Serbian companies and threatens the duty-free trade principles of the CEFTA agreement.

The most critical immediate issue involves significant truck delays at border crossings. Exporters report that additional quota-tracking procedures by Serbian customs authorities have led to mounting financial losses. These include rising transportation costs, penalties for late deliveries, and disruptions to production and construction supply chains in Serbia. FTCBiH warns that these delays are seriously damaging the reputation of Bosnian suppliers as reliable partners.

Consequently, the Chamber is calling for immediate diplomatic action toward the Republic of Serbia and CEFTA structures to protect the free flow of goods.