Trade Balance Analysis between Kosovo and Germany (2015–2024): Export and Import Dynamics in the Framework of Economic Development

Abstract

This paper presents an in-depth analysis of the trade balance between Kosovo and Germany during the period 2015–2024, focusing on the dynamics of exports and imports and their role in Kosovo's economic development. Using official data from the Kosovo Agency of Statistics and the Kosovo Customs Open Data portal, the study identifies key trends in bilateral trade, including export growth, structural changes in imported goods, and the persistent trade deficit. The findings show that Germany has become Kosovo’s main trading partner by 2024, accounting for 10.7% of total exports and 14.1% of total imports. Key export categories include plastic and rubber articles (23.8%), base metals (20.3%), and various finished products (19.2%). On the import side, Kosovo heavily relies on transport equipment (56.8%) and machinery (8.6%). The analysis uses graphical and statistical methods to assess the trade trajectory and offers policy recommendations for improving export competitiveness and narrowing the trade gap. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for industrial modernization and better integration into European supply chains to ensure sustainable growth.