Last week, a Serbian delegation visited Japan, signing key memorandums of cooperation in science, artificial intelligence (AI), and information technology, as well as a joint statement on a framework agreement to promote and protect investments between the two countries. The agreements aim to accelerate investments in e-mobility, microelectronics, IT, and the food industry.
Ambassador Aleksandra Kovač highlighted the historic friendship between Serbia and Japan, noting that 2027 will mark 145 years of diplomatic relations. The visit strengthens political dialogue and expands collaboration in strategic areas, including economy, trade, green transformation, energy, critical materials, and innovative technologies.
Serbia is becoming an attractive destination for Japanese companies, with around 7,000 people currently employed by Japanese firms in the country. Marko Čadež, President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, emphasized Serbia’s strategic location, free trade agreements and favorable business environment as key drivers for new investments in automotive, e-mobility, battery production, and microelectronics. Serbian food exports to Japan also rose 14% last year.
Key agreements signed include:
- A Memorandum of Understanding between Serbia’s Office for IT and e-Government and Japanese IT giant NTT DATA, focusing on advanced networks, data security, and AI infrastructure.
- A Memorandum of Cooperation between Serbia’s Ministry of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation and Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology, covering AI, blockchain, ICT, physics, mathematics, biology, biotechnology, environment, energy, and higher education.
- A Joint Statement on the promotion and protection of investments between Serbia and Japan, signaling a safe and promising investment environment.
Bilateral trade in 2024 totaled $332 million, with $87 million in exports from Serbia and $105 million in imports from Japan, including machinery, food products, vehicles, and chemical reagents.
