Skopje – In response to the implementation of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), transporters from Macedonia, Kosovo, Serbia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina have announced a seven-day blockade of border crossings to the Schengen Area starting on Monday.
Biljana Muratovska, Secretary General of the Association of Employers’ Organizations of Transport Trading Companies “Makam-trans”, informed MIA that although they recognize the repercussions of the blockade, the potential benefits to the economy of both the country and the Western Balkans are significant if their demands are addressed.
Muratovska mentioned that there has been no communication from the European Commission regarding negotiations to resolve the issue of tracking stays in the Schengen Area, particularly concerning the 90/180-day rule for professional drivers.
“If we don’t receive any information from the EU by Monday, the protest will commence at 12:00 for all vehicles exiting the country, while border crossings will close at 00:00 for incoming vehicles, allowing those returning home to participate in the protest,” said Muratovska.
The transporters’ primary demand is to establish a solution for the duration of drivers’ stays in the Schengen Area, whether by ensuring days are not counted or by issuing visas without day limitations, as Muratovska explained.
“The new regulations could lead to a complete economic collapse in the country and the entire Western Balkans, including Turkey—countries not part of the EU and Schengen Area—due to supply chain disruptions. The transport industry, which has seen significant investment and contributes substantial foreign currency to the budget, would be severely affected,” Muratovska emphasized.
The protest is scheduled to begin on January 26, and its duration will depend on the EU’s response; however, the blockade will not exceed seven days, aligning with the average goods transport cycle.
“We understand that this blockade will result in some financial losses, but the potential benefits for economic growth and development in the country and the Western Balkans, if our demands are met, will be immense,” concluded Muratovska. (January 23, 2026)
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