The Law for Protection of Personal Data (LPPD) in Kosovo establishes guidelines for protecting personal data and regulates its transfer to other countries.

Kalo & Associates has advised the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development on a partnership with Raiffeisen Bank Kosovo under the Norway Western Balkans Growth Support Program.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift toward remote work globally, including in Kosovo. While this new way of working offers flexibility and convenience, it also exposes gaps in labor regulations. Kosovo’s Labor Law, like many others, was primarily designed for traditional in-office work environments and has yet to fully adapt to the nuances of remote work. Remote work context has brought to attention legal gaps in areas such as work hours, digital privacy, employer responsibilities, and employee rights.

Bratschi has successfully represented Mabco Constructions in an ICSID investment arbitration against the Republic of Kosovo.

Kosovo has recently adopted Law No. 08/L-265 on the Register of Beneficial Owners, a key piece of legislation aimed at enhancing transparency and preventing financial crimes. Officially published on November 22, 2024, in the Official Gazette of Kosovo, this law not only addresses regulatory gaps but also lays the foundation for a transparent and trustworthy business environment in Kosovo, aligning it with the practices of European Union member states. 

RPHS Law has advised Swinto on the sale of the majority of its shares to Virtus Invesco Partners. ICL Legal advised the buyers.

Kalo & Associates has advised Starlink on establishing its business in Kosovo.

Inlex Managing Partner Shkumbin Asllani reports on the country's ambitious goals for economic growth outlining Kosovo's recent legislative efforts to promote renewable energy, attract investments, and develop capital markets while remaining cautiously optimistic, noting that implementation could face challenges.

The Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo approved the new Bankruptcy Law no. 08/L-256 on July 11, 2024, which was published in the Official Gazette on August 6, 2024, and will enter into force 15 days from the date of publication.

Baker McKenzie has successfully defended Kosovo Telecom in a Swiss Rules Arbitration against a Kosovar company reselling its mobile credit as well as in the subsequent challenge of the award at the Swiss Supreme Court.

On January 25, 2024, the Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo published a list of concept notes anticipated for drafting and adoption by the Kosovo Government in the present year. The concept note, a regulatory prerequisite to the enactment of legislation within a specified domain, specifies the objectives of prospective governmental policy and the optimal modalities for their implementation.

Legal changes abound in Kosovo with contested advocacy laws and ongoing judicial reform, says Hodaj & Partners Managing Partner Taulant Hodaj, who highlights that despite challenges, favorable tax laws and investor-friendly policies persist in attracting businesses.

Taking a deep dive into the most interesting recent developments in Kosovo, Vokshi & Lata Partner Florin Lata discusses a projected 4% GDP growth for the year, significant legal reforms across several sectors, as well as key business and economic drivers for the small Balkan market.

The ever-growing real estate market in Kosovo shows no signs of stopping. Even amid high prices, demand for real estate keeps growing. This demand is largely driven by Kosovo’s diaspora living in the EU and other Western countries. It is also fueled by foreign nationals and foreign companies who find properties in Pristina and other major cities in Kosovo attractive as investments.

Cytowski & Partners has advised Kode Labs on its USD 30 million series B financing round with Maverix Private Equity. Canada's Osler Hoskin & Harcourt advised Maverix.

On the evening of April 25, 2024, the Deal of the Year Awards Banquet brought together, under the same roof, top-tier lawyers from Central and Eastern Europe's leading law firms in the region in Warsaw.

Contributed by Boga & Associates.

Did you know that the CEE Q1 leaderboards are available through the Activity Rankings function of the CEELMDirect website?