Croatian and Serbian Professionals Unite for Business Opportunities Ahead of EXPO 2027 Belgrade

Strengthening Partnerships for EXPO 2027

On October 14, 2026, tourism and business professionals from Croatia and Serbia convened in Zagreb for the "Visit Expo B2B Networking" event. The purpose of this gathering was to discuss potential business ventures in anticipation of the first specialized exhibition in the Western Balkans, EXPO 2027 Belgrade.

The event was structured to facilitate various forms of dialogue including business presentations, a roundtable discussion, and B2B meetings, allowing participants to connect, share ideas, and explore possible partnerships. The focus of the day's discussions revolved around how EXPO 2027 could capitalize on the strong economic connections between Croatia and Serbia, paving the way for new opportunities in the region.

Strategic Importance of Zagreb

Igor Kovačević, Chief Operating Officer and International Participants Director for EXPO 2027, advocated for the strategic role of Zagreb as a critical link between the European single market, Serbia, and the broader Western Balkans. Kovačević clarified that the upcoming exposition aims to not only strengthen existing ties but also to serve as a platform for collaboration between the regional economies and those of Europe and the globe.

Exploring Business Opportunities

A focal topic in the day’s roundtable was the discussion of the opportunities and impacts surrounding EXPO 2027. The networking session emphasized the potential for collaboration specifically in sectors like hospitality and tourism. Issues highlighted included the flourishing bilateral trade, which reached nearly 1.9 billion euros in 2025 according to the Croatian Chamber of Economy, identifying areas ripe for cooperation in tourism, transportation, energy, IT, construction, and agriculture.

The significance of inter-business relations was underscored by attendees, who regarded the discussions as an essential step in fostering growth and cooperation between companies in both nations.

Details About EXPO 2027 Belgrade

Scheduled from May 15 to August 15, 2027, EXPO 2027 Belgrade will revolve around the theme “Play for Humanity, Sport and Music for All.” It is anticipated that the expo will attract over 140 international participants and around four million visitors, establishing itself as a historical event for the region’s economy and tourism.

As EXPO 2027 approaches, the collaborative spirit evidenced in Zagreb could potentially lead to fruitful partnerships, enhancing not just tourism but strong economic ties between Croatia and Serbia. This initial networking meeting stands as a solid testament to the ambition and potential held within the Western Balkans.

For further inquiries on EXPO 2027 Belgrade, interested parties are encouraged to refer to the official communications via [email protected].

Let’s witness how this historic event unfolds and the impact it can have on the regional economies. The time for collaboration is now!