Maximum retail fuel prices in Serbia increased by RSD2 per litre on 17 July, with higher costs affecting transport, agriculture, construction and other fuel-dependent sectors.
Following the adjustment, Eurodiesel reached RSD222 per litre, equivalent to approximately €1.89, while BMB 95 petrol rose to RSD198 per litre, or around €1.69. The regulated prices apply until 24 July. The subsidised price of agricultural diesel remains unchanged at RSD184 per litre.
Diesel Costs Increase for Logistics and Industrial Users
Since the second half of June, diesel prices have increased by RSD5 per litre, while petrol prices have risen by RSD7 per litre. The changes are particularly significant for road freight operators, agricultural businesses, construction companies and food distribution firms, as Serbia’s logistics network relies heavily on diesel-powered transport.
Higher fuel costs add pressure to operating expenses across sectors already managing other cost categories, including labour, maintenance and transportation-related expenditures.
State Measures Limit Immediate Price Impact
The government continues to manage fuel price increases through temporary excise duty measures and weekly retail price limits. These interventions reduce the immediate impact of international fuel market changes on consumers and businesses, but they also reduce state revenue from fuel taxation.
The lower excise income affects public finances by limiting one of the government’s established revenue sources, while also reducing the market incentives for greater efficiency, fleet modernisation and alternative fuel adoption.
Budget Pressure Increases Alongside Public Financing Needs
The fiscal impact of fuel-price support is becoming more significant as Serbia continues financing priorities including defence, healthcare and infrastructure investments. While regulated prices provide short-term protection for households and companies, reduced excise collections coincide with a period of rising public financing requirements and increasing interest expenditure.
