In the first positive move since June, Illinois-based Zastava Arms USA has announced a shipment of PAP series rifles has arrived from Serbia. 

The guns had been cut off from overseas shipments by order of the Serbian government this summer in a case of East vs. West political heartburn. Now, Zastava's U.S.-based subsidiary says there has been progress on the issue, and the export pipes are open-ish. 

"After five months of hard work, we have successfully secured an exception from the export ban imposed by Serbian authorities," said Zastava Arms USA in a Nov. 29 post on social media. "Each shipment will be carefully reviewed, and we are thrilled to announce that our first shipment of ZPAP M70s has arrived!" 
 

As to how long the pipe will be open, Zastava said, "We’re hopeful for more shipments to come, but our journey will depend on the security and political climate in the Balkans."

The company also warned that prices are edging up due to increased tariffs imposed by the White House.

"As many of you know, our biggest challenge comes from this side of the ocean, with the U.S. government imposing a 35 percent tariff. To keep providing you with high-quality sporting firearms, we have reevaluated our costs, and there will be an approximate 15 percent increase at the retail level. Rest assured, we are committed to maintaining reasonable prices while delivering the best products," said the post.  

We'll be catching up with Zastava at SHOT Show next month for more details, so stay tuned.