Serbia’s Minister of Trade, Jagoda Lazarević, stated that some retail chains are not complying with the new price margin regulations, while others have followed the rules but removed promotional discounts. Market inspections will continue, alongside direct discussions with retailers, producers, and distributors.
Lazarević confirmed that some chains attempted to pressure suppliers, prompting a regulatory adjustment 24 hours after adoption. She emphasized that the ministry aims to protect consumers by ensuring lower prices and supporting local producers and industry.
The minister expects that noticeable price changes will become clear within 15 to 30 days of the regulation’s implementation. Some chains applied the rules but eliminated discounts, while others ignored the regulations entirely, and all cases are being monitored.
The regulation was modeled on practices in Hungary, Romania, and North Macedonia. Lazarević noted that Bulgaria plans similar measures, limiting margins to 20 percent and “of rebate” to 10 percent, as a way to stabilize prices ahead of adopting the euro.
Consumers are also encouraged to provide feedback where prices have not decreased.
