economy
March 3, 2026
Law on unfair practices arrives earlier
After six months of validity, the decree on limiting margins has expired, and at this moment it remains to be seen how market participants will behave in the transitional period, until the adoption of the law on unfair trade practices. Although the administrative limitation of margins is no longer in force, the Ministry of Trade previously announced that they will continue to monitor price movements and relations between traders and suppliers, which could be crucial for preventing sudden market disruptions. As we learn, comments on the proposed law from Brussels arrived earlier than expected, so this systemic regulation could be on the government's agenda as early as next week, and then before the deputies at the first subsequent session of the assembly.
TL;DR
- The decree limiting retail margins in Serbia has expired after six months.
- A new law on unfair trade practices is expected to be adopted soon, potentially next week.
- Suppliers are concerned about potential demands from large retailers for compensation for losses incurred during the margin limitation period.
- Consumer advocates advise consumers to be vigilant about prices, compare offers, and focus on necessary purchases.
- Economists do not anticipate major price oscillations but expect adjustments due to increased input costs, though stable exchange rates for imports may mitigate some inflation.
- The behavior of market participants and the speed of the new law's adoption will determine market stability.
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