Area under organic farming

Serbia’s organic farming – growth and incentives are not enough to reach EU targets

Organic farming in Serbia presents a significant opportunity for the country, particularly given the rising global demand for organic products. Unfortunately, in 2023, only 0.85 % of the utilised agricultural area was under organic production, . However, growth is most notable in meadows and pastures, driven by increasing organic livestock production, . The domestic market for organic products has expanded, but challenges remain in expanding consumer demand due to the low awareness of organic production benefits, low affordability of products and a lack of trust in certification. A new law on organic production will be aligned with EU legislation, and government support for organic farming has increased, with incentives for organic farming now higher than those for conventional agriculture. Coupled with growing consumer concerns about food safety and pesticide residue, and the efforts of non-governmental organisations in promoting organic agriculture, these factors suggest a positive outlook for the future of organic farming in Serbia.