Landmark registration establishes first regional professional body for Authorized Economic Operators across six Western Balkan countries
Belgrade, Serbia – The Western Balkan Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) Association has successfully completed its official registration with the Serbian Agency for Business Registers, marking a significant milestone in regional trade facilitation and customs cooperation.
The association received its formal registration decision on February 12, 2025, following its establishment on January 31, 2025. The organization has been assigned registration number 28393865 and tax identification number 114871821, cementing its legal status as a membership organization dedicated to enhancing cooperation between AEO-certified companies and customs authorities across the Western Balkans.
Strategic Regional Positioning
Headquartered at Kralja Milana 33 in Belgrade’s Vračar district, the association is positioned to serve as the primary professional body for Authorized Economic Operators throughout Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. The central Belgrade location reinforces the organization’s commitment to facilitating cross-border collaboration and trade efficiency across the region.
“This official registration represents more than a legal formality – it establishes the foundation for transforming how AEO-certified companies operate and collaborate across the Western Balkans,” said a spokesperson for the association. “We now have the formal structure needed to advocate for our members and drive meaningful improvements in regional trade processes.”
Addressing Critical Trade Challenges
The association’s mission focuses on enhancing cooperation between authorized economic operators and customs authorities to facilitate trade processes and address identified challenges facing the region’s growing economy. With AEO certification becoming increasingly valuable for companies engaged in international trade, the association will serve as a vital resource for maximizing the benefits of this trusted trader status.
The organization’s establishment comes at a crucial time when Western Balkan economies are experiencing significant growth in international trade and seeking greater integration with European and global markets. AEO certification provides companies with priority treatment at customs, reduced inspections, and faster clearance times – advantages that become even more powerful when coordinated through a professional association.
Unlimited Duration, Unlimited Potential
Registered for an unlimited duration, the association demonstrates the founding members’ long-term commitment to regional trade facilitation and economic development. The permanent structure ensures continuity in advocacy efforts and member services as the regional economy continues to evolve and expand.
The legal registration process, completed through Serbia’s unified registration system, reflects the association’s compliance with all regulatory requirements and its commitment to operating with full transparency and accountability. Representative Jovan Mutavdžić led the registration process, ensuring all documentation met the stringent requirements of Serbian business registration law.
Building on Strong Foundations
The association’s formal establishment builds on existing momentum in the Western Balkans’ trade facilitation sector, where companies increasingly recognize the competitive advantages of AEO certification. Through Mutual Recognition Agreements with the European Union and other trading partners, AEO status provides seamless access to international markets – benefits that the association will help members fully leverage.
“This registration validates our vision of creating a unified voice for AEO operators across the Western Balkans,” noted the association’s leadership. “We’re now positioned to provide concrete value to our members while advancing the broader goals of regional economic integration and trade efficiency.”
Next Steps and Member Services
With its legal foundation now secure, the association will focus on expanding membership across all six Western Balkan countries and developing comprehensive services for AEO-certified companies. These services will include advocacy with customs authorities, training and capacity building programs, networking opportunities, and support for companies seeking AEO certification.
The association will also work closely with EU-funded initiatives and multilateral agencies to ensure that regional trade facilitation efforts align with broader European integration objectives and international best practices.
The Western Balkan AEO Association represents a new chapter in regional cooperation, providing AEO-certified companies with the collective voice and specialized resources needed to maximize their competitive advantages in an increasingly complex global trade environment.
For more information about membership opportunities and services, companies can contact the association at connect@aeoassociation.com or visit their offices at Kralja Milana 33, Belgrade.
