The Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA) said it has adopted nine new agreements to simplify business operations, create new job opportunities, and strengthen consumer rights across the region.
CEFTA’s joint committee decided on the recognition of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programs between its seven markets, which means that businesses with customs benefits in their home markets will now enjoy them across the CEFTA region, it said in a press release on Wednesday. The committee also adopted agreements to facilitate e-commerce and simplify parcel delivery in the region.
Rules allowing for unrestricted online shopping across CEFTA markets by ensuring that online shops cannot block access to websites, products, or services based on a consumer’s location and origin were also adopted.
The committee approved agreements on harmonised intellectual property rights standards and the establishment of an electronic system for risk management, as well as rules allowing travel agencies and tour operators to gain easier access to all CEFTA markets.
An agreement on a new mechanism for resolving trade disputes between CEFTA members and a recommendation on simplified motor insurance processes in CEFTA markets were also adopted.
“With these decisions, we are creating a stronger, more unified economic space where businesses can grow faster, and consumers are protected even when shopping beyond their local markets. This is a significant moment for CEFTA as we are moving closer to full alignment with the EU market. The benefits will be felt across the entire CEFTA. Small and medium companies will be empowered to export and make the best use of digital markets, while all of us will benefit from more choice, better price and quality and more robust consumer protection,” said Danijela Gacevic, acting director at CEFTA Secretariat.
CEFTA comprises non-EU countries of Southeast Europe, whose members currently are Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, and Kosovo.
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