Serbia records 3.6% Q2 growth, claims fastest‑growing economy in Europe

Serbia's economy expanded by 3.6% in the second quarter of 2024, up from a 3.2% rise in the first quarter, making it the fastest‑growing economy in Europe according to Finance Minister Siniša Mali. Mali highlighted that growth was broad‑based, with increases in services, industrial production, construction and agriculture, and said the diversified structure reduces reliance on any single sector.

He noted that the state treasury holds about 560 billion dinars and that public debt represents roughly 44% of GDP. The minimum wage was raised to 65,554 dinars (about €551), which Mali said fully covers the basic consumer basket for the first time. From 1 August, prices of 99.6% of reimbursed medicines were cut, a measure financed with more than €100 million in state funds. Mali expressed optimism for the next six months, expecting millions of Expo visitors, completion of large infrastructure projects and a growth rate above 4% in the coming year.