Nearshoring and decarbonisation in the Western Balkans

Client/Funding Institution

DIHK - Deutscher Industrie- und Handelskammertag

Abstract

This project followed up on wiiw´s previous study “Getting stronger After COVID-19: Neashoring Potential in the Western Balkans” and aimed at assessing whether there has indeed been some near-shoring to the Western Balkans during the past 2.5 years and in which countries and industries it has occurred. In addition, the project explored what companies from the Western Balkans think about decarbonisation, what the challenges are that they are facing with respect to it, and how nearshoring trends can be synergised with ongoing efforts in decarbonisation and green transformation. The main research questions were addressed by analysing quantitative and qualitative data on FDI in the WB6, by conducting and analysing surveys of WB6 companies and finally by conducting and analysing surveys of German companies, in order to assess their perceptions and views on the importance of decarbonisation for their investment and cooperation with other companies. We concluded that near-shoring is indeed taking place in the region, aligns well with the global trend of decarbonisation, and presents an opportunity for both local companies and the broader economies of the Western Balkans.

Duration

January 2024 - September 2024

wiiw team Leader

Branimir Jovanović

wiiw Staff

Beata Borosak, Corinna Covi, Monika Schwarzhappel

Publications

Keywords: nearshoring, decarbonisation, Western Balkans, FDI

Countries covered: Western Balkans

Research Areas: International Trade, Competitiveness and FDI, Regional Development

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