Sarajevo Energy Forum 2026 Begins: Energy Transition in Focus of Regional Dialogue

(Patria) - The Foreign Trade Chamber (VTK) of Bosnia and Herzegovina is a partner and co-organizer of the Sarajevo Energy Forum 2026, which began today in Sarajevo and will last until tomorrow.

The Forum, as one of the most significant regional events dedicated to energy, electromobility, technologies, and innovations, has gathered representatives of institutions, the energy sector, economy, and international partners with the aim of exchanging views and experiences on key issues of the energy transition in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Western Balkans region.

VTK BiH participates in the Forum as a partner of the event, confirming its commitment to strengthening dialogue between institutions and the business community, and to promoting sustainable development and the competitiveness of the BiH economy in the energy transition process.

- The Sarajevo Energy Forum represents an important platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and creating initiatives that can contribute to improving the business environment and stimulating new investments in the energy sector.

Energy today is not just a matter of resources, but also of competitiveness, sustainability, and access to the EU market. The introduction of the CBAM mechanism, decarbonization goals, and the accelerated green transition pose new challenges for our companies, but at the same time open up space for investments, modernization, and technological progress - said the President of VTK BiH, Ahmet Egrlić.

He points out that in 2025, the export of products covered by the CBAM mechanism from BiH reached 951 million KM, which is 205 million KM or 27 percent more compared to 2024, while exports to the European Union amounted to 433 million KM, which is 86.3 million KM or 25 percent more compared to the previous year.

The most significant item in the export of CBAM-covered products is electricity, with as much as 91 percent, and total CBAM exports account for about six percent of BiH's total exports, which in 2025 amounted to 17.4 billion KM.

After the opening ceremony, Egrlić visited the Fair of Energy, Electromobility, Technology, and Innovation within the Forum, where companies from Bosnia and Herzegovina, the region, and the international market are presenting their latest solutions and products.

At the VTK BiH stand, Egrlić discussed with businessmen the challenges in doing business in the context of the energy transition, the regulatory framework, investments, and adaptation to European standards.

At the VTK BiH stand, SEF visitors can get a comprehensive insight into the Chamber's activities related to the energy transition, CBAM, and preparation for the EU ETS system, as well as information about the work of the BiH Center for Responsible Business.

They can also get information about upcoming fairs, training, and support programs that the Chamber organizes for the domestic economy.

During the first working day of the Forum, panels and expert presentations were held dedicated to current topics in the field of energy, including investments, the regulatory framework, regional cooperation, and the development of modern energy solutions.

Special emphasis was placed on the visions of the energy future of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region, as well as the importance of aligning with European policies and standards.

The Forum program also includes accompanying content, such as the selection of the best student works in the field of energy and technology, presentations of start-ups and innovations, and the awarding of the Sarajevo Energy Star award in several categories.