Kosovo’s regulatory landscape is shifting fast, with a key highlight from Energy Regulatory Office decision pushing certain companies which meet the criteria entering the open power market and sparking legal challenges, according to RPHS Law Head of Energy Blerina Ramaj, who, at the same time, reports of a wind-power public auction framework and a new crypto-licensing regime aligned with EU rules as signals of a broader push toward modernization and EU convergence.
New Regulation on the Licensing of Crypto-Asset Service Providers in Kosovo
On August 29, 2025, the Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo (BQK) approved the Regulation on the licensing of crypto-asset service providers (OSHKA) offering crypto-asset exchange services, establishing a clear legal and supervisory framework for this developing sector. The Regulation was adopted pursuant to Law No. 08/L-295 “On Crypto-Assets” and aims to ensure new standards of transparency, professionalism, and consumer protection in the digital assets market.
Kosovo: Transition of Commercial Entities to a Liberalized Electricity Market
Law No. 05/L-085 on Electricity (2016) provides small commercial entities with access to the so-called Universal Supply Service – the right to remain in the price-regulated energy market. In contrast, large commercial entities must find their energy suppliers licensed by the Energy Regulatory Office (ERO). In commercial terms, this means a transition of the energy market from a single supplier to dozens (currently up to 20). This transition aims to develop the energy market, increase competition, and improve service quality for consumers.
Addressing Anti-Competitive Practices in Kosovo’s Market
Kosovo’s Law No. 08/L-056 on Protection of Competition serves as a key instrument in maintaining fair and open market conditions by addressing anti-competitive behavior, supporting free market principles, and aligning with EU legal standards. The law equips the Kosovo Competition Authority (KCA) with the authority to investigate, sanction, and prevent restrictive practices and abusive market conduct.
RPHS Law Advises Zvilo on Local Security for EUR 75 Million Fasanara Capital Facility
RPHS Law has advised Zvilo on local security arrangements in Kosovo for a EUR 75 million debt facility from Fasanara Capital.
RPHS Law and Inlex Law Advise on Sale of Turkiye Is Bankasi's Kosovo Branch Banking Portfolio to Banka Ekonomike
RPHS Law has advised Turkiye Is Bankasi on the sale of its Kosovo branch banking portfolio to Banka Ekonomike. Inlex Law advised Banka Ekonomike.
Kosovo's Energy Conundrum: A Buzz Interview with Vjosa Shkodra of Lex Business
Kosovo’s shift to a liberalized energy market has prompted business pushback, with courts stepping in to ensure stability as companies navigate rising costs, limited suppliers, and a lack of clear regulatory guidance, according to Lex Business Managing Partner Vjosa Shkodra.
Kosovo's Limbo: A Buzz Interview with Ardian Rexha of Deloitte Legal
Kosovo is in political limbo after the February elections, with stalled government formation affecting key decisions, according to Ardian Rexha, an Attorney at Law associated with Deloitte Kosova. At the same time, energy reforms and price hikes by the regulator are causing strong reactions from businesses and the public.
Kosovo Powers Up: A Buzz Interview with Delvina Nallbani of Nallbani Law
Kosovo is accelerating its energy transition, SEPA integration, and corporate transparency, aligning with EU standards to boost investment, competition, and economic stability, according to Nallbani Law Office Managing Partner Delvina Nallbani.
2025 CEELM Deal of the Year Awards Banquet: And the Winner Is…
On the evening of April 1, 2025, the Deal of the Year Awards Banquet brought together, under the same roof, over 200 top-tier lawyers from Central and Eastern Europe's leading law firms and General Counsel from across the region in Prague.
The Corner Office: 2024 in (Volume) Review
In The Corner Office, we ask Managing Partners at law firms across Central and Eastern Europe about their backgrounds, strategies, and responsibilities. With 2024 behind us, we asked: Looking at transactional volumes for this year, would you say that 2024 was better or worse than what you originally expected it to be, and why?
Kosovo: Using Binding Corporate Rules and Standard Contractual Clauses as Data Transfer Mechanisms
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 Advises EBRD on Agreement with Raiffeisen Bank Kosovo
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.
Kosovo: Employee Rights in a Remote Work Context
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 Successful for Mabco Constructions in ICSID Investment Arbitration Against the Republic of Kosovo
Bratschi has successfully represented Mabco Constructions in an ICSID investment arbitration against the Republic of Kosovo.
Kosovo Introduces Law No. 08/L-265: A Significant Step for Beneficial Ownership Transparency
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 and ICL Legal Advise on Swinto's Sale to Virtus Invesco Partners
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 Advises Starlink on Establishing Operations in Kosovo
Kalo & Associates has advised Starlink on establishing its business in Kosovo.
