Seasonal labor shortage hits Serbian berry farms, while Serbian workers seek jobs in Croatia

Berry growers in western Serbia are offering daily wages of up to 6,000 dinars, accommodation and three meals to attract seasonal harvesters for the red‑gold raspberry harvest slated to begin around 20 June. Despite these incentives, growers report a severe shortage of workers, fearing that up to 1,000 kg of berries could be lost if enough pickers are not found.

At the same time, Serbian seasonal employee Bojana Topalović has spent six summers working in Croatia's hospitality sector. She describes paid lodging and meals, an adequate salary, and the ability to save money, while noting the demanding shift patterns and occasional stressful days. Her experience highlights the flow of Serbian workers to neighboring Croatia for seasonal employment.