The Belgrade Stock Exchange is developing a carbon trading system designed to support domestic companies navigating increasingly stringent European emissions requirements. According to Chief Executive Lazo Ostojić, the initiative mirrors the framework used by the EU's Emissions Trading System (ETS).
The Belgrade Stock Exchange appearing through green trees. AI generated picture.
The platform addresses a growing challenge for Serbian exporters. The EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) requires importers to pay a carbon price corresponding to the emissions embedded in certain goods. These costs frequently transfer back to suppliers outside the EU, creating new financial pressures for businesses.
Through the new trading platform, Serbian firms will gain access to carbon credits—verified emissions reductions typically equal to one tonne of CO2 equivalent. By purchasing these credits, companies can compensate for their own emissions and reduce their exposure to CBAM charges.
'Our idea is that, following the EU ETS model, our companies will be able to buy carbon credits to mitigate their risks,' Ostojić was quoted as saying.
The exchange's readiness for this expansion stems from recent infrastructure improvements. Following its transition to the Greek OASIS trading platform, the Belgrade exchange has initiated a process of regional integration with a view to joining the pan-European Euronext group, which operates eight exchanges across the continent.
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Exchange leadership expects demand not just from Serbian enterprises, but also from companies throughout the Western Balkans, all facing similar regulatory pressures in their dealings with EU markets.
Carbon trading joins a broader modernisation programme for Serbia's capital markets. A digital token trading system is also planned, forming part of a wider effort to broaden market participation and draw both domestic and international investors.
Regulatory momentum continues to build. Serbia has already introduced an emissions levy set at €4 per tonne of CO2 equivalent, demonstrating the country's commitment to harmonising its climate-related framework with European standards.
Read more: How to choose high-quality carbon credits
As regulatory frameworks across emerging markets increasingly align with EU standards, carbon credit markets create essential pathways for companies to manage their environmental impact within value chains. Green Earth remains committed to helping businesses across the region access verified carbon credits and demonstrate their contribution to positive environmental outcomes.
