Fulfilling the requirements for export of metal industry products from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina cross-border area to EU market

Abstract

Exporting to European Union market includes free exchange of people, goods and services as well as wide range of opportunities for companies, but also includes many difficulties and requirements which need to be fulfilled. As exporting is a difficult challenge for metal industry companies in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, this study included 20 small and medium sized companies from cross-border area - Zlatibor and Sarajevo districts, which have traditionally been export oriented, in order to improve activities regarding fulfilling the requirements for export of metal industry products from given regions. Analyses were conducted on statistically significant differences between influential parameters on fulfilling the requirements for export of metal industry products in cross border area of Serbia and BIH to EU market, financial standings and investment in the employee development, implementation of New Approach directives, implementation of management system standards and other. It was found that the largest issue in both Sarajevo and Zlatibor district are financial resources for fulfilling the requirements, while most influential obstacle is lack of government support and incentives. Recommendations are given to metal industry companies in both districts, based on the conducted empirical research. The research on fulfilling requirements for export of metal industry products to the EU market in the cross-border area of Serbia and BIH gives opportunity for companies in those areas to be connected and motivated to become more competitive, by using and exchanging modern knowledge and skills, European procedures and standards, raising the technological level and mutual promotional appearances.