On 23 April 2026, the National Assembly of Serbia adopted the new Law on (Unfair) Trading Practices, introducing a comprehensive framework governing relationships between buyers and suppliers, particularly in the fast-moving consumer goods sector.
The adoption of this long-awaited legislation has been broadly welcomed as an important step toward regulating an area of trade that has, until now, lacked a clear and systematic legal framework.
Scope of Application
The Law applies to all buyer–supplier relationships (B2B) in Serbia concerning:
- agricultural and food products (including perishable goods), and
- products of importance for market supply (e.g. household chemicals, cosmetics, hygiene products, agricultural inputs).
The application of the new law is mandatory regardless of the governing law chosen by the parties.
Enforcement and Investigative Powers
The Commission for Protection of Competition is granted broad investigative powers, including inspections and dawn raids.
Sanctions
The sanctions for breaches of the law are turnover based, starting at 0.1% and 0.2% of annual turnover, with potential increases and decreases.
Compliance Timeline
Businesses must align contracts and practices within four months from the Law's entry into force. Timely adaptation will be critical to mitigate enforcement risks and capitalize on the new regulatory frameworks.
Should you require a more detailed analysis or an assessment of the impact on your business, please do not hesitate to contact us at office@bnb.law