European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that private sector partnerships and investment agreements could unlock around €4 billion ($4.63 billion) in new funding for the Western Balkans, strengthening trade and economic integration with the European Union.
Speaking at the EU–Western Balkans Investment Forum in Tirana, Albania, von der Leyen emphasized that 10 new business deals were being finalized, with 24 more under discussion. The initiative forms part of the EU’s broader growth plan to double the region’s economic capacity and expand its participation in international trade within the next decade.
“The time to invest in the Western Balkans is now,” von der Leyen said, noting that the plan aims to build stronger trade links, enhance logistics infrastructure, and encourage cross-border business collaboration across the region.
The EU has allocated €6 billion to help Albania, Bosnia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia establish a regional common market aligned with the European single market. This includes cooperation in the free movement of goods and services, as well as improved transport and energy networks—key drivers for regional and global trade competitiveness.
Von der Leyen also highlighted artificial intelligence, clean energy, and industrial value chains as strategic sectors for investment that could strengthen the region’s role in EU supply chains. Streamlined regulations and closer industrial partnerships are seen as essential steps toward deeper trade integration.
Serbia and Montenegro currently lead EU accession efforts, followed by Albania and North Macedonia, while Bosnia and Kosovo continue to progress in meeting trade and market reform requirements.
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