Serbia and Egypt – A new era of free trade and economic cooperation

In July 2024, Serbia and Egypt made a historic leap in their economic relations by signing a Free Trade Agreement, which came into effect at the beginning of 2025. This document has the potential to transform the trade dynamics between the two countries and enable the Serbian economy to significantly increase exports to a market of over 100 million people.

What does the agreement include?

The agreement covers more than 16,000 products and provides for the complete elimination or gradual reduction of customs duties on a wide range of goods from Serbia. The focus is on food products, agricultural commodities, as well as industrial goods.

For example:

Fresh apples, previously subject to a 40% tariff, are now duty-free.
Dried plums, an important Serbian export, are exempt from the previous 30% tariff.
Frozen berries, such as raspberries and blackberries, will no longer face 20% import duties.
Processed food products, which were once taxed up to 60%, can now enter the Egyptian market at significantly lower costs.
Tariffs on mineral water, soft drinks, and beer have been completely eliminated.

Importance for the Serbian economy

This agreement grants Serbian exporters access to the Egyptian market on equal footing with competitors, presenting an exceptional opportunity to place products under more favorable conditions. This is particularly valuable for Serbian farmers who already face intense competition in EU markets.

Industrial sectors such as:

The ceramic industry
Building materials production
Pharmaceuticals and chemical industry

…also have significant growth potential in Egypt, where demand for high-quality products continues to rise.

A Strategic dimension – Gateway to Africa

Egypt is positioning itself as a logistics and investment hub for the entire African continent. In this context, the agreement is not merely a bilateral one for Serbia—it is a strategic entry point into broader regional markets. The agreement also includes provisions to expand cooperation into services and investment sectors, opening the door to new forms of economic partnership.

There is also potential for joint projects—Serbian companies can establish production facilities in Egypt, utilizing local resources as well as benefits from Egypt’s free trade agreements with other African nations.

This free trade agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter in Serbia’s international trade policy, offering opportunities that extend far beyond the Egyptian market.

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