Montenegro Blocks Kosovo Exports

Montenegro has been blocking the entrance of Kosovo exports into the country, because of their customs stamps which read the 'Republic of Kosovo'.

Even though Montenegro has recognized Kosovo’s independence, Customs officials at the border have been turning away exports, confirmed the head of Kosovo’s Economic Chamber, Besim Beqaj, to the daily Koha Ditore.

"A few days ago, Kosovo products were blocked at the entrance of Montenegro because of the non-recognition of our customs stamps", said Beqaj.

Beqaj announced that Kosovo authorities have contacted authorities in Podgorica to report the case. However, they have yet to receive a reply.

Kosovo’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Lutfi Zharku, announced that Pristina is "expecting to solve this issue in the next two or three days".

Montenegro now joins the ranks of Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, who have decided to reject Kosovo imports or apply full tariff duties because of the Republic of Kosovo customs stamp.

All three states, including Kosovo, are part of the Central European Free Trade Agreement, CEFTA, despite the fact that Kosovo products have not been given free movement in this economic area.

Kosovo has announced that a retaliated blockade will not occur toward the three countries involved, but that the matter will instead be resolved in a politically diplomatic manner.

(Reporting by Shega A’Mula)