A proposed deal could reshape access to a Balkan market, while a planned transport agreement adds momentum to bilateral trade.

In January 2026, Ukraine submitted a draft free trade agreement to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Kyiv is awaiting a response from the Bosnian side, said Ukraine’s Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Volodymyr Bachynskyi.

Introducing a free trade zone could significantly improve conditions for Ukrainian exporters. Bosnia and Herzegovina currently imposes a 10% tariff on Ukrainian goods, increasing their cost for buyers in the local market.

A Free Trade Agreement Could Increase Trade Turnover

According to Volodymyr Bachynskyi, removing customs barriers would help boost bilateral trade. At present, trade volumes between Ukraine and Bosnia and Herzegovina remain relatively low.

Without a doubt, this would help increase trade turnover, which, unfortunately, is currently not very large – just a few tens of millions of U.S. dollars by the end of 2025.

– Volodymyr Bachynskyi

The ambassador also expects positive changes in the road freight transport sector. According to him, Ukrainian carriers currently deliver more goods to Bosnia and Herzegovina than Bosnian companies transport to Ukraine.

“Transport Visa-Free Regime” Between Ukraine and Bosnia and Herzegovina

Ukraine and Bosnia and Herzegovina have agreed to launch a “transport visa-free regime” on January 1, 2027. The decision is intended to simplify international freight transportation between the countries and create additional opportunities for developing trade relations.

Volodymyr Bachynskyi noted that the prospect of signing a free trade agreement has already been discussed at various levels – from national leaders to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. At the same time, agreeing on all provisions of the document will require time.

But I consistently convey to the Bosnian side the message that such an agreement must be concluded, especially since Ukraine already has, or is working on concluding, free trade agreements with most countries in the region.

– Volodymyr Bachynskyi

Concluding a free trade agreement is expected to remove customs restrictions, strengthen the position of Ukrainian companies in the Bosnia and Herzegovina market, and support further growth in bilateral trade.