CCIS and SIPPO Launch Initiative to Boost Export Competitiveness
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS), in cooperation with the Swiss Import Promotion Programme (SIPPO), is organising a business event to mark the launch of the Sustainable Export Initiative. This initiative aims to enhance the competitiveness of the domestic economy in international markets by implementing sustainable business principles.
The activities within the Initiative align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and are directly focused on strengthening the economy’s capacity to understand and apply the requirements of the indicators defined by the 17 goals of the 2030 Agenda. Specifically, it integrates environmental protection, social responsibility, and good governance (ESG dimensions) to encourage businesses to incorporate these principles into their operations. By doing so, companies can gain a competitive edge in the market, enhance their integration into international supply chains and explore export opportunities.
By integrating environmental protection, social responsibility, and good governance, businesses can gain a competitive edge in international markets and enhance their export opportunities
The central topic of the Initiative’s presentation will be the Sustainability Readiness Assessment Tool, designed to help companies evaluate their preparedness for sustainable business practices. Alongside representatives of the SIPPO project, the event will also feature the National Project Manager of the International Trade Centre. Additionally, a SIPPO consultant will deliver a presentation on Sustainable Marketing and Sales Strategies in International Markets.
The business event took place in late March at the Regional Chamber of Commerce of the South Bačka Administrative District in Novi Sad. More details about this event will be featured in our upcoming editions.
About SIPPO
The Swiss Import Promotion Programme (SIPPO) operates under the mandate of the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) as part of Switzerland’s economic development cooperation efforts.
SIPPO’s mission is to facilitate the integration of developing and emerging economies into global trade. While export companies in SIPPO partner countries often have high-quality products for international markets, they face challenges in connecting with potential buyers. At the same time, importers in target markets seek reliable suppliers but encounter difficulties in sourcing them abroad.
To bridge this gap, SIPPO focuses on supporting the last mile of the supply chain, helping exporters and importers connect. The programme works through Business Support Organisations (BSOs), which serve as key intermediaries in facilitating market access and boosting exports to Switzerland, the EU, and regional markets.
SIPPO exclusively supports BSOs in its partner countries—whether public or private entities such as trade promotion organisations, export boards, sector associations, and chambers of commerce—by strengthening their capacity to assist export-ready companies.
Through local SIPPO teams and a network of international and national experts, the programme enhances the performance of selected BSOs in two key areas:
- Enhancing trade promotion activities – strengthening BSOs’ capabilities in market research, trade fair participation, selling and buyer missions, and study tours.
- Supporting organisational development – assisting BSOs in strategic planning, positioning, project cycle management, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning.
SIPPO operates in 11 partner countries and covers six key sectors: fish and seafood, Processed Foods, Natural Ingredients, Technical Wood, Value-Added Textiles, and Sustainable Tourism.
Implemented by Swisscontact in 2017 in partnership with BHP Brugger and Partners and Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation, SIPPO is currently in its second phase (2021-2025).