Experienced trade facilitation expert to lead strategic growth across Western Balkans
Belgrade, Serbia – The Western Balkans Authorized Economic Operators Association today announced the appointment of Aida Nani, MBA, as Regional Manager, effective immediately. The appointment, in October 2024, reinforces the association’s commitment to strengthening trade facilitation and customs compliance across the region.
Aida brings over three decades of specialized experience in infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and regulatory compliance to her new role. As Founder and Managing Partner of Stag Consult, an Albanian-UK registered consultancy, she has successfully guided both government and private-sector clients through complex regulatory landscapes across Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Serbia.
“Aida’s appointment represents a significant milestone for our association,” said a spokesperson for the AEO Association. “Her deep understanding of the Western Balkans market, combined with her proven track record in AEO program implementation, makes her uniquely qualified to drive our regional expansion and member services.”
Extensive Regional Expertise
Aida’s expertise encompasses policy advisory services, customs and trade compliance, authorized economic operator programs, risk management, and public-private partnerships. Her work has been instrumental in helping organizations navigate the evolving regulatory environment while capitalizing on opportunities for market entry and expansion across the Western Balkans.
Under her leadership at Stag Consult, the consultancy has established strategic partnerships with EU-funded initiatives and multilateral agencies, demonstrating her ability to foster collaboration between public and private sectors. Her focus on ESG integration has also positioned her as a forward-thinking leader in sustainable business practices.
“I’m honored to take on this role at such a pivotal time for trade facilitation in the Western Balkans,” said Aida. “The AEO certification represents a crucial competitive advantage for businesses in our region, and I look forward to expanding our association’s impact and supporting members in realizing the full benefits of their AEO status.”
Regional Integration Champion
As a regular speaker at international forums on regional integration, digitalization, and sustainable development, Aida has been a vocal advocate for streamlined procedures and capacity building across the Western Balkans. Her appointment aligns with the association’s mission to promote AEO certification benefits and facilitate cross-border trade efficiency.
The AEO Association, which currently serves members across Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, provides critical support for companies seeking to leverage their Authorized Economic Operator status for competitive advantage. Members benefit from priority treatment at customs, reduced inspections, faster clearance times, and enhanced credibility with international partners.
“Aida’s proven ability to deliver complex projects and her extensive network throughout the region will be invaluable as we continue to grow our membership and enhance our services,” added the association spokesperson.
Strategic Growth Focus
In her new role, Aida will oversee the association’s regional strategy, member engagement, and business development initiatives. Her appointment comes as the association continues to expand its footprint across the Western Balkans, supporting companies in maximizing the benefits of AEO certification through Mutual Recognition Agreements and enhanced trade partnerships.
The Western Balkans AEO Association is supported by the EU and German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development via GIZ, underscoring the strategic importance of trade facilitation in the region’s continued economic development.
