Thousands of Bosnian truck drivers ended their supply blockade in the country after authorities committed to fulfilling most of their demands and providing support within the framework of the European Union, AFP reported.

During the protests, around 6,000 trucks halted nearly all deliveries, causing massive traffic jams. The drivers demanded that the government help negotiate better working conditions in the EU—the leading export market for the Balkan country. According to official data, the EU accounted for approximately 64% of Bosnia’s foreign trade last year, with over 90% of goods transported by road.

The drivers’ demands included simplified administrative procedures for faster goods transport, a 50% refund on fuel excise taxes, and reductions in road tolls. “We received understanding and support from all institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Zijad Sarić of the main drivers’ association Consortium Logistika BiH. “From this moment, the protests are ending.”

Representatives of the trucking sector met with several ministers, including Edin Forto, responsible for transportation, who stated that the ministry had already fulfilled 11 of the 17 drivers’ demands.

The sector, comprising between 15,000 and 18,000 drivers, has for months urged authorities to negotiate with the EU to change a rule they consider “discriminatory.” Bosnian trucks are allowed to stay in the EU for only 90 days within a 180-day period—the same as ordinary tourists. The rule was introduced in 2008 when Bosnia signed a trade and aid pact with the EU, the first official step toward full membership in the political and economic bloc.

The drivers want an exemption from the 90-day rule or for their stay to be measured in hours rather than days. The issue is expected to be addressed diplomatically by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ahead of the regional truck drivers’ meeting scheduled for next week in the Serbian capital, Belgrade. | BGNES