Vucevic at the American Chamber of Commerce Conference: We want to form strategic ties with the USA

Today, Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic stated that the Serbian government views the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) as a stable and reliable partner, highlighting that the Chamber members’ positive assessment of the business climate in Serbia demonstrates a shared approach to tackling challenges and fostering a better business environment.

Speaking at the 12th annual AmCham conference, held under the slogan "Twelfth Passing Time," Vucevic noted that 75 percent of AmCham members expect business growth next year, according to a statement from the Serbian government.

"For Serbia, it is particularly significant to have obtained an investment credit rating for the first time, despite ongoing challenges, and the government has succeeded in reducing inflation, expected to be around four percent by the year-end," Vucevic emphasized.

He also pointed out the increase in direct foreign investments in Serbia, with the most notable growth in the field of information technology.

In the area of ICT services, the contribution to GDP has grown tenfold over the past decade, Vucevic said.

In 2023, total software service exports to the U.S. reached $1.6 billion, and there is substantial room for further growth and employment expansion in this sector, he added.

"We want to continue building strategic connections, especially in energy and the green agenda, which remains a priority. The Strategic Cooperation Agreement with the U.S. in energy will further enhance exchange with that country," the Serbian Prime Minister said.

Stefan Lazarevic, President of AmCham, affirmed the Chamber's commitment to remain a stable partner to the Serbian government, describing the cooperation between the two parties as highly successful.

Christopher Hill, the U.S. Ambassador to Serbia, expressed satisfaction with the Serbian government’s collaboration with AmCham and its openness to the Chamber’s suggestions.

Hill noted that many American companies are interested in doing business in Serbia, recognizing the wealth of young talent in the country.

He emphasized the importance of research on the business climate in Serbia, pointing out that it offers an overview of issues and provides solutions for addressing them.

The research showed moderate satisfaction with Serbia's business climate among companies, scoring three out of five, with a gradual upward trend.

The survey also indicated that business performance in 2024, for both AmCham members and small and micro-enterprises, has exceeded planned expectations, with results surpassing last year's and nearly reaching pre-pandemic levels from 2019.

It was also noted that a large number of AmCham members expect business growth and new investments in the coming year, with half of them anticipating an increase in employment.