Despite over €58 million invested in irrigation systems from 2021 to 2024, Serbia still lacks fully functional irrigation infrastructure. Many constructed systems have not been put into use, even though some projects were completed. Delays in key planning documents, including the “Irrigation and Drainage Program in Serbia until 2031”, further hinder progress, according to the latest report by the State Audit Institution (DRI).
Currently, only about 2% of arable land in Serbia is irrigated. Publicly owned systems cover roughly 105,000 hectares, less than 6% of land suitable for irrigation. The largest systems are located in Vojvodina, but the Water Management Strategy for Serbia until 2034 targets irrigation for 250,000–350,000 hectares. Existing systems cover just 29% of this target, while new systems are needed for the remainder.
Implementation has been slowed by the government’s failure to adopt the 2024–2026 Action Plan for the Water Management Strategy, despite completed public consultations. Past projects include a $97 million Abu Dhabi Development Fund loan and a €48 million EBRD loan for climate-resilient irrigation projects, yet many systems remain non-operational due to incomplete technical approvals, missing permits, or inadequate infrastructure such as electricity networks.
In 2024, irrigation was planned for 160,000 hectares but only 66,742 hectares were actually irrigated, according to official statistics. Some constructed facilities, such as the Mali Iđoš dam and pumping stations, are not in use.
Additionally, water quality regulations remain outdated, relying on a 1994 rulebook rather than updated standards, risking soil contamination, reduced crop yields, and threats to human and animal health.
Agricultural production has suffered, with wheat output dropping nearly 16% in 2024 compared to 2023. Projections for 2025 show wheat production potentially rising to 3.6 million tons, a 24.3% increase, while areas sown with corn, sugar beet, sunflower, and soybeans are all lower than the previous year.
The report highlights that inefficient use of public funds and poorly implemented irrigation systems continue to jeopardize strategic agricultural and water management goals.
