France is expanding its business presence in Serbia as bilateral trade approaches €2.5 billion, creating opportunities for cooperation in engineering, manufacturing, infrastructure, technology and industrial services. The opening of a Business France office in Belgrade is intended to strengthen commercial ties, support companies entering each other’s markets and facilitate new investment projects.
The office has a team of three staff members and will serve as a point of contact for French businesses exploring opportunities in Serbia and Serbian companies seeking to expand their activities in France.
Trade and Industrial Cooperation
Bilateral trade is expected to reach €2.5 billion, reflecting the scale of commercial relations between the two countries. Cooperation spans manufacturing, engineering, industrial services and exports, with opportunities for Serbian suppliers to participate in French-led projects and integrate into international supply chains.
The new office is expected to help companies identify business partners, navigate market-entry requirements and develop commercial relationships. Its activities will also support Serbian companies seeking access to French customers and industrial networks. Manufacturing and services represent important areas for further cooperation, particularly where Serbian businesses can supply components, technical expertise and specialised services to French companies.
Infrastructure and Serbian Suppliers
Infrastructure projects, including the Belgrade Metro, provide potential opportunities for cooperation between French companies and Serbian businesses. Local suppliers could contribute engineering expertise, equipment, components and services, depending on project requirements. Strengthening links between international contractors and domestic companies could help Serbian businesses expand their role in major infrastructure developments and establish longer-term commercial relationships.
Regulatory compliance is another important consideration for exporters. Companies operating in sectors affected by the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) need to prepare the required emissions data and supporting documentation. These requirements are increasingly relevant to businesses supplying carbon-intensive products to European markets.
Technology and Expo Opportunities
Technology cooperation is another area of interest, including artificial intelligence and digital services. GITEX AI Belgrade is intended to provide a platform for technology companies, investors and other industry participants to establish partnerships and explore commercial opportunities.
The development of Serbia’s international business profile is also linked to preparations for Expo, which is expected to create opportunities for investment, services, technology and international business engagement. These initiatives offer potential channels for connecting Serbian companies with foreign investors, technology providers and commercial partners.
Financing and Institutional Cooperation
Business cooperation is also supported by efforts to strengthen institutional links between France and Serbia. A planned agreement is intended to advance bilateral cooperation, with arrangements involving the French Senate in Paris. The expansion of Business France’s presence in Belgrade provides an additional institutional channel for supporting companies, facilitating market access and identifying potential investment projects. With bilateral trade approaching €2.5 billion, the focus remains on translating established commercial relations into further cooperation in engineering, industrial production, infrastructure, technology and services.
