Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – The very first CEFTA-Transport Community Green Lanes with the EU (Greece) mark the first year of implementation. This initiative, made possible through the SEED+ System for Electronic Exchange of Data, has been reshaping customs cooperation and accelerating trade between CEFTA and EU.
“The SEED+ system, fully funded by the EU, facilitates secure and efficient data exchange among customs administrations, improving risk analyses and significantly reducing waiting times and costs. Its flexibility and adaptability ensures seamless trade and minimizes administrative burdens,” says a press release issued by the CEFTA Secretariat.
Acting Director of the CEFTA Secretariat Danijela Gacevic has said that the Green Lanes initiative shows the commitment of CEFTA and the EU to promoting trade and building closer economic ties between them.
“It has not only proven its effectiveness but has also laid the foundation for future enhanced cooperation, fostering stronger connectivity between the CEFTA and EU. By optimising customs processes and ensuring efficient border management, the initiative supports businesses to expand their markets at lower costs,” said Gacevic.
Director General of the Customs Administration of Republic of North Macedonia Stefan Bogoev said that the Customs Administration of the Republic of North Macedonia was strongly committed to the trade facilitation in every aspect, thus increasing the competitiveness of the trade companies on the international market, while at the same time ensuring the effectiveness and security of the border management.
“The establishment of the Green Lanes within CEFTA and the expansion of this initiative toward the EU Member States that began with establishing electronic exchange of data between our country and Greece in July 2022 support transparency and predictability of supply chains, laying a solid foundation for future integration of the CEFTA Parties with EU,” said Bogoev.
Governor of the Independent Authority for Public Revenue of the Hellenic Republic George J. Pitsilis said that he considered the participation in the Green Lanes initiative to be of great importance.
“Our cooperation with CEFTA-Transport Community and the Customs Administration of North Macedonia was beneficial to us all, as it affected many issues of cross-border trade. SEED+ is a tool with added value in improving trade facilitation, while ensuring more effective controls,” stated Pitsilis.
Director of the Transport Community Permanent Secretariat Matej Zakonjsek said that the first year of implementing the Green Lanes with the EU has been a significant milestone for connectivity and transport in the region.
“This initiative has brought economies closer, streamlining border procedures and reducing waiting times. The success of these Green Lanes highlights their importance in enhancing connectivity, facilitating trade flows, and strengthening regional integration,” said Zakonjsek.
