Marko Čadež, President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce (PKS), met with representatives from the forestry, wood processing, furniture, and paper industries to discuss priorities and measures for improving the sector’s competitiveness.
Industry leaders highlighted key challenges, including rising raw material and energy costs and the need for greater transparency in raw material distribution. A major topic was the upcoming European Union Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR – EU 2023/1115), effective December 30, 2024. Businesses stressed the urgent need to establish a regulatory body to coordinate institutions and companies in aligning national legislation with EU requirements, including registration, verification, and certification processes.
The meeting also addressed plans for a new national strategy for forestry and wood industry development, replacing the outdated 2006 strategy. This new framework aims to promote sustainable resource management and the production of higher value-added products. Poland was cited as a positive example, where the wood sector is recognized strategically, supported by favorable tax policies and workforce development.
Čadež introduced the Chamber’s updated work model, highlighting the Center for Economic Initiatives and Quick Solutions. This center collaborates with ministries and the President’s office to address economic challenges—from strategic planning to permit acquisition.
The Association for Forestry, Wood Processing, Furniture, and Paper Industry under PKS represents around 12,900 businesses and entrepreneurs, employing over 53,000 workers—about 2.3% of Serbia’s total workforce.
