The total cost for organizing the EXPO 2027 exhibition in Belgrade, including the infrastructure projects such as the Aquatic Center, a residential complex of 1,500 apartments, the Zemun railway connection to Nikola Tesla Airport, the new EXPO 2027 venue, and a new wharf on the Sava River, is estimated to be 1.29 billion euros, according to the EXPO 2027 company, as reported by RTS and the Tanjug agency.
Dimitri Kerkentzes, the General Secretary of the International Bureau of Exhibitions (BIE), discussed the investment plans for the exhibition, explaining that each EXPO is tailored to its specific goals and circumstances, making it difficult to directly compare them in terms of budget, visitor numbers, international participation or economic impact. However, Kerkentzes emphasized that valuable insights can be gleaned from previous EXPO experiences.
He pointed out that these investments are not solely driven by the exhibition itself, but are significantly accelerated by the presence of EXPO, which in turn attracts additional investments. Serbia, from the outset, has seen EXPO 2027 as a key driver of growth and international visibility, with a number of projects outlined in the official Dossier for Recognition that are integral to Serbia’s long-term development strategy.
Kerkentzes also highlighted the progress made by Serbia in preparing for the event, noting that the reports submitted to the BIE committees and General Assembly demonstrate the country’s commitment to meeting the high standards expected by international participants. While challenges are expected, particularly as Serbia organizes its first international exhibition in the Western Balkans, Kerkentzes remains optimistic about the success of the event.
He further emphasized that each EXPO presents both opportunities and challenges, but it is in the shared interest of both the Bureau and the host country to ensure the success of the event. The BIE is ready to assist Serbia with its technical expertise in the coming months and years.
Growing interest in EXPO 2027 is already apparent, with several member states confirming their participation. Kerkentzes also noted that Serbia’s selection as the host country for EXPO 2027, as well as the approval of its Recognition Dossier, is a clear indication of the confidence that BIE member states have in Serbia’s ability to successfully organize a major global event.
