Tomislav Momirović, Serbia’s Minister of Internal and External Trade, has praised his recent meetings in China with suppliers and representatives from major Chinese retail chains. He expressed confidence that Serbia is gaining momentum in entering the Chinese market. “The meeting was highly productive. It’s time to translate what we’ve negotiated through the Free Trade Agreement into concrete products that can secure their place in the world’s largest market,” Momirović told Tanjug in Xiamen. He immediately visited one of the retail chains and later engaged in discussions with distributors and leaders from nine retail chains.
The minister highlighted significant interest in Serbian products, including meat, fruits and vegetables. “The interest is substantial. Chinese distributors and retail chains are eager to include our fruits, vegetables, and meat products,” Momirović noted, deeming this development highly promising.
He emphasized that while Serbia’s export growth is commendable, additional support is needed for the country’s agriculture and food industry. “We have respectable export growth, but we need to provide extra support to our agriculture and food industry, which is why we are here,” he said. The minister stressed that there are no more major political issues at hand—what remains is achieving concrete results, enhancing trade, and increasing income for Serbian farmers.
Momirović underscored that Serbia’s trade exchange is expanding, with a growing number of Serbian products entering the market. “We must collaborate and support our businesses and farmers to find their place, especially considering that every major city in China has over 10 million residents. We need to identify niches that maximize our interests, and I believe we are gaining the right momentum. Results should follow in the coming months and years,” he added. Momirović joined the Serbian government delegation showcasing the country’s economic potential at the 24th China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT).
Adrijana Mesarović, the Minister of Economy, who is leading the delegation, visited various retail chains and participated in meetings with suppliers and representatives from retail establishments. During their visit, Serbian products, including three types of juices and Tesla wine, were already available at a retail outlet in Xiamen. According to a representative, there is considerable interest in Serbian blueberries due to their exceptional health benefits.
The CIFIT, which began in Xiamen on Sunday, features participants from 120 countries. Serbia, which has its own National Pavilion at this prestigious event, is focusing on the Free Trade Agreement. The fair, which saw Serbia as the guest country for the past two years, attracts over 120,000 visitors.
Last year, Serbia’s national stand was awarded the best, and this year, it was visited by China’s Deputy Prime Minister before the official opening. At the event’s opening, three commercial contracts between Serbian and Chinese companies were already signed.