UIO BiH adopts regulations for new border crossings

The Indirect Taxation Authority (UIO) of Bosnia and Herzegovina has adopted new internal organization regulations, enabling the establishment of customs services at several key border crossings. This includes the new Gradiška Novi Most – Gornji Varoš crossing and the Rača 2 – Sremska Rača 2 crossing, the latter expected to begin operations in mid-October. Additionally, several crossings between BiH and Croatia, such as Vaganj, Zagrad, and Vinica, have transitioned from local border traffic to international passenger road traffic.

The adoption of these regulations follows months of political deadlock within the UIO Governing Board. The impasse was largely driven by Zijad Krnjić, an expert from the Federation of BiH whose mandate expired in September. Krnjić had previously blocked the adoption of these rules, demanding a resolution to disputes regarding the distribution of VAT revenues, which reportedly involves a discrepancy of nearly 200 million KM between entities.

Following Krnjić's departure from the board, the regulations were passed by the remaining members, including the ministers of finance from the state, Republika Srpska, and the Federation of BiH. Officials noted that the new status for several crossings will facilitate smoother international travel and allow for the declaration of non-commercial goods up to 5,000 KM. Travelers are reminded that customs officials have broad authority to inspect vehicles, luggage, and persons under Union and national laws.