The Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) has proposed a significant regulatory change aimed at bolstering the country’s energy security. The initiative seeks to temporarily eliminate customs duties on imports of crude oil and petroleum products from non-preferential markets, which include countries outside the EU and CEFTA, as well as those without special trade agreements with Bosnia and Herzegovina. This policy, if enacted, will be in effect for 180 days.
In order to implement this change, authorities plan to direct the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations to adjust the national customs tariff system. The proposed amendments would effectively reduce import duties on oil and petroleum products from third countries to zero during this six-month period, thereby lowering barriers for alternative suppliers entering the market.
Officials advocate that this removal of tariffs will broaden the range of potential suppliers, facilitating diversification in sourcing and reducing reliance on established import routes. This strategy is expected to enhance competition within the fuel supply chain, which may lead to more stable pricing structures and improved overall market efficiency.
Furthermore, the proposal aims to increase the nation’s resilience against external shocks. By enabling quicker access to alternative supply channels, Bosnia and Herzegovina could better manage sudden disruptions such as supply shortages or price surges, ensuring a more reliable energy supply.
Government representatives have underscored the proactive aspect of this measure. By establishing duty-free access ahead of time, the country would be prepared to activate alternative supply routes swiftly during crises, thus avoiding delays associated with administrative processes or additional costs. This preparedness is viewed as a means to enhance institutional capacity and improve risk management within the energy sector.
The driving force behind this proposal is the current volatility observed in global energy markets. Notably, price fluctuations recorded in March 2026 underscore the unpredictability of these conditions, reinforcing the necessity for timely policy interventions aimed at safeguarding supply stability while protecting the domestic economy.
