Serbia has banned the entry of Croatian cargo vehicles and goods amid a deterioration of bilateral relations over rows triggered by the refugee crisis.

Serbia imposed the embargo in response to border restrictions introduced by Croatia, according to reports of Reuters.

The measure directed the flow of migrants across the Balkans towards Croatia.

Last week, Croatia banned all types of cargo vehicles, except those carrying perishable goods, from entering from Serbia, and closed seven of the eight border crossing points, seeking to curb the influx of refugees after the closure of Hungary’s border with Serbia.

After the deadline by which Croatia was expected to lift the blockade expired at midnight, Serbia declared that it had no choice but to adopt reciprocal measures to protect its interests.

Serbia’s Interior Minister Nebojsa Stefanovic told journalists that Serbian police would prevent the entry of any freight vehicle with a Croatian registration plate or any truck carrying goods made in Croatia.