The Albanian American Relations Council (AARC) has urged the Government of Kosovo to suspend the 10% tariff currently imposed on goods from the United States. This request aligns with the broader appeal made by AARC, which calls on Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia to proactively eliminate all tariffs on American imports.
The appeal comes in response to recent U.S. tariff measures affecting global imports. Currently, the United States has imposed a 10% tariff on imports from Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro, while North Macedonia faces a significantly higher tariff of 33%.
AARC has commended Kosovo’s President Vjosa Osmani for her leadership in advocating for an immediate suspension of tariffs on U.S. imports. The council emphasized that this initiative is a strategic step toward strengthening economic ties with the United States and aligns with broader foreign policy objectives.
“We commend President Osmani for her prompt proposal to suspend tariffs on U.S. imports. This initiative is a strategic move toward deepening economic relations with the United States and aligns with broader foreign policy goals. We urge the Government of Kosovo to move forward with adopting and implementing this policy without delay,” the council stated.
Beyond Kosovo, AARC is calling on the governments of Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia to follow suit by eliminating tariffs on U.S. imports. The council argues that a unified approach would reinforce these nations’ commitment to economic cooperation while sending a strong message to both the United States and the European Union about their ability to engage in constructive regional collaboration.
“A unified approach would not only reinforce these nations’ commitment to economic cooperation but also send a powerful message to the United States and the European Union about their capacity for constructive regional engagement,” AARC stated.
In addition to the tariff suspension, AARC has urged these four nations to collaborate on developing a comprehensive joint proposal for the United States. The proposal should aim to create an integrated and dynamic economic environment that attracts greater U.S. investment. By presenting a united front, these countries could establish a larger, more competitive market that fosters economic growth and solidifies long-term trade relations with the United States.
“Beyond economic benefits, such an initiative would demonstrate a shared commitment to free trade, open markets, and strategic alliances—principles that are essential for partnerships with the U.S. and efforts toward EU integration. Expanding cooperation and economic harmonization with the United States can further strengthen the region’s position as a valuable contributor to the transatlantic community,” AARC emphasized.
The council reiterated its willingness to support initiatives that promote economic stability, regional prosperity, and stronger diplomatic relations between the Western Balkans and the United States.
“We urgently call on policymakers in Kosovo, Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia to seize this opportunity to reinforce their ties with the United States by demonstrating their commitment to regional unity and economic progress,” AARC concluded.