Kosovo

Kosovo is in an underdeveloped area of what was once Yugoslavia, and having formerly depended on aid from Yugoslavia and Serbia, does not have an independent economic structure. The primary industries are commercial (and other) services and agriculture, and while Kosovo has some mineral resources (zinc, lignite among others), its economic base is vulnerable. Currently, the country faces a constant trade deficit, inadequate power and a high unemployment rate (about 45 percent) primarily among the young. Kosovo also has social issues, including the rule of law and ethnic antagonism, and considerable time is needed before economic independence. JICA is providing assistance with a focus on economic and social stability, including human resource training, as well as on the environment.