The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, Aleksandar Martinović, held a meeting with representatives from Valjevska and Niška Pivara to discuss the challenges facing the brewing sector, with a particular focus on the operations of small and medium-sized breweries.
A key point of discussion was the proposal to implement excise tax rates on beer based on production volumes, drawing inspiration from practices in the European Union. This initiative aims to support small breweries, which are struggling with market competitiveness.
“The brewing sector is a crucial part of Serbia’s food industry and a significant export driver. The Ministry is committed to helping small and medium-sized breweries increase production and enhance competitiveness. However, it is essential to define concrete steps to achieve this,” said Minister Martinović.
To explore options for reducing excise taxes and other forms of support, the Ministry of Agriculture will submit an initiative to the Ministry of Finance to organize a joint meeting.
The meeting was also attended by State Secretary Bratislav Ćirković, Assistant Minister Dr. Nenad Katanić, and Branislav Raketić, Head of the Food Quality Group.
