The Serbian government has amended the regulation on special trade conditions, with a key change affecting supplier pricing policies. While the original regulation effectively froze purchase prices at the level of August 1, 2025, the amendments exempt products whose prices fluctuate daily: fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and fish, and coffee and cocoa, whose prices are set on exchanges.
The new rules allow the purchase prices of these items to reflect real market conditions rather than remain tied to a static reference point. Professor Ljubodrag Savić from the University of Belgrade notes that such adjustments are normal and aim to resolve practical issues as they arise. He emphasizes that consumer protection remains in place, as price limits still apply to a broad range of products, and further adjustments may focus on essential goods for lower-income citizens.
The amendments also clarify that the 20% maximum margin for large retailers applies from the moment a product first enters the domestic market. Digital reporting requirements are strengthened: retailers must submit price lists to the Ministry of Trade in CSV format, including barcodes, regular and promotional prices, unit prices, and precise discount periods. Retailers operating in multiple formats, including online channels, must provide separate price lists for each format.
Professor Savić highlights the balance needed between protecting consumers, maintaining fair margins, and ensuring responsibility among both domestic and foreign companies operating in Serbia.
