Serbia introduces new agricultural inspections and disease control measures

The Serbian government is implementing new measures to strengthen agricultural oversight and animal health protection. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management has launched a public discussion on a draft law regarding official controls. This new system, modeled after EU Regulation 2017/625, aims to align Serbia with European standards and is a requirement for opening Cluster 5 in EU negotiations. The proposed law introduces risk-based inspections that may be conducted without prior notice, covering food safety, animal welfare, plant health, and organic production. Penalties for non-compliance can reach up to two million dinars, with measures ranging from product recalls to facility closures.

In a parallel move to address biological threats, the Serbian government has established an Operational Headquarters to prevent, suppress, and eradicate African Swine Fever, Bluetongue, and other infectious animal diseases. This body is tasked with coordinating state institutions to enhance biosafety and protect the livestock sector. The initiative aims to mitigate significant economic risks to domestic agriculture, particularly for small and medium-sized meat and milk producers, by ensuring stable supply chains and protecting export potential.