115 Years of Enduring Partnership: VTK BiH’s Unwavering Commitment to Business in Bosnia and Herzegovina
115 Years of the Chamber of Foreign Trade of Bosnia and Herzegovina
The Chamber of Foreign Trade of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a prominent association of businessmen in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is celebrating its 115th anniversary. Founded on 14 September 1909, in the City Hall in Sarajevo, the Chamber of Commerce and Trade of Bosnia and Herzegovina is considered the first institutionalized association of businessmen in the country.
The Chamber was established based on the Law on the Establishment and Organization of the Chamber of Commerce and Trade for Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo. The law defined the Chamber’s scope of activity as the entire territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with its headquarters in Sarajevo. The Chamber’s primary objectives included discussing proposals related to commercial and artistic matters, providing suggestions and comments to authorities on trade, crafts, laws, and establishing institutions to improve the economy.
Throughout its 115-year history, the Chamber has remained committed to its fundamental role of collaborating with businessmen to express their interests and serving as a link between them and government institutions. According to Vjekoslav Vuković, President of VTK/STK BiH, “The mission of the Chamber has remained the same – cooperation with the economy of BiH – while its vision has evolved to adapt to the trends of the modern economy.”
Today, VTK/STK BiH is a modern, professional organization that represents and promotes the interests of Bosnian businessmen in the country and abroad. The Chamber comprises various associations and groups from different sectors of the economy and offers a range of services to businessmen, including business and market information, advisory services, promotional activities, and databases. As a member of several international associations, such as Eurochambres, International Chamber of Commerce-ICC, ABC, FIATA, IRU, and SECI, the Chamber participates in projects aimed at improving regional business cooperation and international trade.