EU access dispute leads to truck drivers in Bosnia stopping deliveries and blocking border crossings.

In a significant development, thousands of Bosnian truck drivers have disrupted deliveries across the country, causing major disruptions to supply chains and trade with the European Union (EU). The action, which began on Monday, has seen over 10 lorry border crossings blocked, most on the frontier with EU member Croatia.

The root of the issue lies in a rule that limits the stay of Bosnian truck drivers in the EU to 90 days within 180 days, the same as tourists. This rule, which dates back to 2008 when Bosnia signed a trade and aid pact with the EU, the first formal step towards membership in the political and economic bloc, is the focus of the truckers' demands.

Industry representatives, including the Transportverband, are calling on authorities to negotiate with the EU to revise this rule, which they deem "discriminatory." Velibor Peulic, from the country's main truckers' association, asserted that they had halted supply chains throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, with about 4,000 tonnes of goods prevented from reaching Sarajevo alone.

The truckers' demands are not limited to an exemption from the 90-day rule. They also seek to measure visits in hours instead of days, and the enforcement of the European Agreement on the Work of Crews of Vehicles Engaged in International Road Transport (AETR). Cargo terminals at several border crossings, including Izacic, Velika Kladusa, Kamensko, and Raca, have been blocked as a result of these protests.

Traffic stoppages were reported near Tuzla, Doboj, Prnjavor, Mostar, Sarajevo, and at several border crossings. The disruptions have caused significant delays at the entrances to several cities, including Sarajevo, affecting the flow of goods and services.

The EU accounted for about 64% of Bosnia's foreign trade in 2024, making the current situation a cause for concern for both Bosnia and the EU. The truckers' strike has highlighted the need for a revision of the rule that they find "discriminatory," and for a solution that takes into account the unique challenges faced by the trucking industry.

While the strike has dominated headlines, it's important to note that the Ministry of Communications and Transport in Bosnia is not responsible for excise duties, customs regimes, or tolls. Additionally, the Bosnian Serb leader Dodik has claimed that the US and EU are plotting to sideline him before he speaks to Trump, but this claim is not directly related to the truckers' strike.

As the situation continues to unfold, both Bosnia and the EU will need to find a solution that addresses the concerns of the trucking industry while maintaining the integrity of the trade relationship between the two parties.

EU access dispute leads to truck drivers in Bosnia stopping deliveries and blocking border crossings.