The Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA 2006) is a modern and comprehensive regional free trade agreement, designed as an integral part of the pre-accession agenda. It provides a strong legal basis for policy formulation and implementation in key areas related to trade and investment. In addition to an ambitious agenda aimed at facilitating trade in goods and services, CEFTA is developing activities designed to improve the overall framework in trade- related areas, such as competition, intellectual property rights, and consumer protection, among others.
The CEFTA Parties have agreed on an ambitious agenda to create a Common Regional Market based on European Union (EU) rules and best practices.
Building on the progress made in the past four years, Western Balkans leaders adopted, on 14 October 2024, a new Common Regional Market Action Plan for 2025-2028, which sets the direction for enhancing trade, mobility, and investment across the region and the integration with the EU Single Market. The new four-year plan is divided into six pillars, three of which are to be implemented by CEFTA: free movement of goods, free movement of services, and horizontal trade measures. The Plan aims to unlock the potential of the region by boosting trade and investment and opening the door for accelerated integration into the EU Single Market.
The Secretariat of CEFTA 2006 was established in Brussels, Belgium, in September 2008. The overall role of the Secretariat is to provide technical and administrative support to the Joint Committee, the Chair in Office, and the bodies established by the Joint Committee.
A specially appointed Selection Committee is now seeking applications for the position of Trade Expert.
Eligible applicants include individuals from public administrations, international organisations, the private sector, civil society, and academia. The successful candidate will be offered a competitive employment contract by the CEFTA Secretariat.
The deadline for receipt of applications is 12 April 2026 at 23:59 (CET).
By applying for this position, you consent to the processing and sharing of your personal data by
the CEFTA Secretariat and CEFTA Parties for the purpose of the recruitment and selection process.
CANVASSING/LOBBYING IN ANY FORM WHATSOEVER WILL AUTOMATICALLY DISQUALIFY AN APPLICANT.
Applications must be submitted through the CEFTA Secretariat’s designated online Application Form, accessible at the following link: Trade Expert
Applications must be received no later than the deadline specified in this Vacancy Announcement. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered. Receipt of all applications will be confirmed by email acknowledgment.
Published: 13 March 2026
Application Deadline: 12 April 2026 at 23:59 (CET)
Vacancy Reference: CEFTA-2026-SG-E-04-TRADE-EXPERT
CEFTA Secretariat | Brussels, Belgium
