The American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo (AmCham) on September 12 expressed serious concern over recent developments that could potentially see Kosovo excluded from regional cooperation initiatives such as the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA).

The warnings stem from the country's current approach to trade, which includes blocking the free movement of goods, an issue that has drawn widespread criticism.

In an official statement, AmCham renewed its appeal to the Kosovo government to lift the measure that impedes the free movement of goods from CEFTA member states.

The chamber highlighted that such a policy threatens not only Kosovo’s past achievements but also its future economic prospects, particularly those tied to regional and international cooperation.

"The American Chamber reiterates that good-neighbourly relations are crucial for the realisation of aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration. The current approach, which risks both economic and political isolation, could have unpredictable consequences for Kosovo’s economic growth and the well-being of its citizens," the chamber stated.

"Such warnings should not be dismissed as mere rhetoric. Kosovo is already facing punitive measures from the European Union, which result in lost opportunities for economic development and social progress."

The American Chamber acknowledged the challenges faced by Kosovan producers in marketing their goods in regional markets. However, it insisted that these obstacles must be resolved through established trade mechanisms and constructive dialogue.

Recently, Germany’s envoy for the Western Balkans, Manuel Sarazzin, directly accused the Kosovo government of failing to reach an agreement on CEFTA and of obstructing trade cooperation in the region. Sarazzin urged Kosovo to unblock the entry of Serbian goods, part of which have been restricted by the Kosovan authorities.

Kosovo is presently represented in CEFTA through the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK). Sarrazin has suggested that Kosovo should be permitted to represent itself within CEFTA, in return for removing the restrictions on specific Serbian products.