economy
March 22, 2026
Serbia has four major advantages over Europe
If the energy crisis continues, there will likely be a budget rebalancing. Currently, there is no reason to fear shortages.
TL;DR
- Serbia has reduced fuel excise taxes by 61% to lower prices, with further support for farmers and use of strategic reserves.
- Experts caution these measures are temporary, and budget rebalancing is possible if the energy crisis continues.
- Serbia's four key advantages over Europe include high strategic oil reserves, a financial buffer in public finances, an established distribution system, and exemptions on Russian oil.
- The global energy shock is considered the largest ever on the oil derivatives market, affecting economies worldwide.
- While there's no current fear of shortages, future price increases are likely if global oil prices continue to rise, as Serbia has limited room for further price mitigation measures.
- Europe is particularly vulnerable due to its reliance on energy imports, contrasting with the less severe price hikes seen in the US market.