WB6 CIF Participates in OECD High-Level Discussion on Green Skills and SME Competitiveness
Budva, Montenegro | 12 May 2026
The WB6 Chamber Investment Forum (WB6 CIF) participated in a high-level panel discussion organized by the OECD within the framework of the OECD SME Policy Index for the Western Balkans and Türkiye 2026.
The discussion focused on the role of green skills development and regional cooperation in supporting the green transition and long-term competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the Western Balkans.
Green Skills as a Competitiveness Priority
During the panel discussion, David Piegazki, representing WB6 CIF, emphasized that regional economic integration and the green transition should be viewed as part of the same agenda, particularly in the context of the region’s increasing integration into EU value chains and alignment with the European Green Deal and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.
A key message highlighted during the discussion was that green skills shortages are no longer only a labour market issue, but increasingly a competitiveness challenge for SMEs. Companies are facing growing pressure to adapt to sustainability requirements, improve energy efficiency, introduce circular business models, and comply with evolving EU standards.
Importance of Regional Cooperation
Participants stressed that no single economy in the region can independently build the full pool of green skills, expertise, and training capacities needed for the transition. In this context, regional cooperation was identified as essential for:
- harmonising professional standards and qualifications
- supporting labour mobility
- strengthening vocational education and training systems
- promoting reskilling and upskilling in green and digital sectors
The discussion also underlined the importance of stronger cooperation between businesses, chambers of commerce, VET providers, universities, and public institutions to create a more coordinated approach to skills development.
Regional Challenge Fund Highlighted as Practical Example
WB6 CIF highlighted the Regional Challenge Fund (RCF) as a practical example of regional cooperation supporting workforce development and competitiveness.
Through partnerships between vocational education and training providers and companies, the Fund contributes to addressing concrete skills needs across the Western Balkans and strengthening alignment between education systems and labour market demands.
The discussion also addressed the importance of continuous learning systems, stronger links between innovation providers and businesses, and more effective mobilisation of public and private investment to support the green transition.
Supporting SMEs Through Skills and Innovation
The panel reaffirmed that strengthening green skills, innovation, and regional cooperation will be essential for ensuring the long-term competitiveness and resilience of SMEs in the Western Balkans.
WB6 CIF remains committed to supporting initiatives that help businesses adapt to new market requirements, strengthen regional economic integration, and accelerate the transition toward a more sustainable and competitive regional economy.
