The slogan “America First” was not only a political stance but also the foundation for specific economic measures, which included the imposition of additional tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, as well as on goods from China and other countries with a trade deficit with the United States.

What did these measures actually mean?

The Trump administration used tariffs as a tool to redefine trade relations – not only with China but also with European Union countries. Tariff rates were increased to protect American industries, especially in sectors where domestic production was considered threatened by unfair foreign competition.

How does this reflect on Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Although Bosnia and Herzegovina was not directly affected by these measures, the indirect effects were quite noticeable:

1. Chain effect on exports – Bosnian companies operating within European supply chains experienced a reduction in orders due to decreased EU exports to the U.S.

2. Pressure on small producers – Small firms exporting specific products (especially from the metal processing industry) faced fluctuations in raw material prices on the global market due to tariff-induced market shifts.

3. New opportunity for positioning – On the other hand, new market niches were opened as some countries sought alternative partners outside of the main trade flows. Bosnia and Herzegovina, with its favorable geographic position and competitive labor costs, could have been more involved, but the lack of systemic support limited these opportunities.

Conclusion: The Need for a Strategic Approach

Although U.S. tariff policies may seem distant and irrelevant to the Bosnian economy, the reality of the global economy shows that such moves are always interconnected. For Bosnian companies to remain competitive, it is essential to:

- Develop regional and global strategic connections,

- Monitor changes in trade regulations,

- Have the flexibility and ability to quickly adapt to market conditions.

Standard Prva, as a company that follows international trends and supports the development of the domestic economy, remains committed to analyzing and interpreting global economic developments with the aim of providing our partners and clients with timely information and advice for making strategic decisions.

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"Standard Prva" LLC Bijeljina is a company registered in Bijeljina at the District Commercial Court in Bijeljina. Company’s activities are accountancy, repurchases of receivables, angel investing and other related services. Distressed debt is a part of the Group within which the company repurchases the receivables, which function and are not returned regularly.

Lawyer’s Office Stevanović is the leading lawyer’s office in the region with the seat in Bijeljina. The LO abbreviation represents Lawyer’s Office of Vesna Stevanović and Lawyer’s Office of Miloš Stevanović.

Contact for media press@advokati-stevanovic.com or via telephone 00 387 55 230 000 or 00387 55 22 4444.