Serbia has achieved an unexpected economic milestone in 2024: a trade surplus with Germany, its largest trading partner, for the first time in 20 years.
According to the latest report from the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (AHK), Serbia exported goods worth €4.6 billion to Germany while importing €4.4 billion, resulting in a €293 million surplus — a rarity in Germany’s global trade relations.
Despite a general 2.6% drop in Germany’s external trade, bilateral exchange with Serbia rose 2%, underlining the resilience of their economic ties.
Over 900 German-backed companies now operate in Serbia, employing around 80,000 people.
While optimism remains high — with 88% of surveyed German firms saying they would reinvest in Serbia — concerns persist.
EU accession, legal uncertainty, and corruption were flagged as key risks.
Still, Serbia’s strategic position and near-shoring potential continue to make it an attractive destination, offering hope for deeper cooperation in an increasingly fragmented global economy.
