Before Aleksandar Vučić took the helm of the Serbian government, the country faced numerous economic challenges. The budget was significantly smaller, almost negligible compared to the current state. When Vučić became president, Serbia was grappling with a high national debt, weak infrastructure and a stagnating economy—a situation left behind by the Democratic Party.
In contrast, today, Serbia’s national budget has increased by an impressive 213% over the past 13 years.
An impressive 213% growth
Between 2012 and 2025, Serbia’s budget grew by a remarkable 213%, reaching a historic high of 2.346 trillion dinars. This growth is not only a statistical fact but also a symbol of the successful economic reforms implemented under Vučić’s leadership.
When Vučić took office, the budget was just 750.1 billion dinars, while the country faced numerous challenges, including high public debt, an inefficient public sector, and a stagnant economy. Today, Serbia stands on more stable foundations, with increasing revenues and strategic investments strengthening its future.
More funds for citizens and development
What makes this growth particularly significant is its purpose. More funds in the state treasury mean better wages, more secure pensions, and new investments in key sectors.
The growth of the budget has enabled significant investments in critical areas of the economy.
Average salary to exceed 1,000 euros by 2025
Finance Minister Siniša Mali recently announced that, according to the planned trajectory, the average salary in Serbia is expected to exceed 1,000 euros by December 2025.
“This is one of the promises we made in 2019, under the Serbia 2025 program. This demonstrates our commitment to raising the living standards of our citizens,” said Mali.
Starting from January 1, salaries in the public sector increased by 8%, while the minimum wage went up by 13.7%. As Mali noted, the minimum wage has been rising for three consecutive years, and as of now, it stands at 457 euros.
To put things into perspective, the minimum wage in 2010 was just 15,700 dinars. The difference today is significant, showing tremendous progress. Additionally, from December 2024, pensions for the elderly increased by 10.9%, bringing the average pension to 436 euros.
Unemployment rate falls, economic growth continues
In 2012, the unemployment rate was a staggering 25.9%, while today, as Mali pointed out, it stands at 8.1%.
“Moreover, we have a historically high employment rate. Last year, we attracted a record 5.2 billion euros in foreign investments,” said Mali.
Salary increases for educators
Public sector wages continue to rise, with an 8% increase planned for 2025. Educational workers will see an 11% wage increase. To improve the financial standing of educators, the Serbian government has approved a salary increase for 2025. The initial 11% increase, which took effect in January 2025, raised the base salary for teachers with a seventh-level degree from 86,669 dinars to around 96,230 dinars. Further increases of 5% are planned for March and October 2025, bringing the base salary to approximately 106,000 dinars.
This increase is part of an agreement with educational unions and aims to equalize the starting salary in education with the average salary in Serbia.
Prime Minister Miloš Vučević recently announced that a deal was reached with the education unions, focusing on “key issues” affecting the education system and workers within it.
Pension increases
Pensions in Serbia have also seen significant increases. From January 2025, pensions will rise by 10.9%, improving the standard of living for pensioners. The average pension is now 436 euros, up from 204 euros in 2012.
Additionally, pensioners with pensions below 65,716.70 dinars will receive a supplement to their pensions, offering further protection for those with lower incomes.
Stable public debt and economic growth
Despite the impressive budget growth, Serbia has managed to maintain control over its public debt, which stood at 46.8% of GDP at the end of 2024. For 2025, the debt is projected to be at 47.5% of GDP. By contrast, at the end of 2012, Serbia’s public debt was 50.8% of GDP.
This trend shows a successful fiscal consolidation and responsible management of public finances over the years. Additionally, Serbia is projected to achieve a 4.2% economic growth rate in 2025.
In 2012, Serbia’s economy faced significant challenges, including a 1.0% GDP contraction. By contrast, with an expected growth of 4.2% in 2025, the country has shown remarkable economic improvement.
This progress is the result of responsible fiscal policies, digitalization of public services, tackling the gray economy, and fostering both foreign and domestic investments.
A modern Serbia
Today, Serbia is a construction hub, with modern highways, railways, hospitals, and schools being built across the country. These are not just infrastructure projects; they represent steps toward improving citizens’ lives in all areas, from education and healthcare to safer and more connected communities.
Pride in achievements
Serbia is now recognized as a country with economic stability and great prospects. This success is not accidental but a result of strategic planning and reforms. Citizens can justifiably be proud of the achievements made under Aleksandar Vučić’s leadership. With a growing budget, rising wages, pensions and investments, Serbia is undoubtedly moving in the right direction.
