The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of the Republic of Serbia has presented, within the framework of a public debate, the Draft Law on Official Controls, whose adoption is expected in the coming months, with implementation planned to begin on March 1, 2026.
The proposed law represents an important step in aligning national legislation with the legal framework of the European Union, aiming to establish a unified, transparent, and digitalized system of official controls in the areas of food safety, animal feed, animal health and welfare, plant protection, and organic production.
The law introduces a comprehensive approach to control, covering all stages of the food production chain – from primary production to distribution – following the “farm to fork” principle. It establishes a clear distinction between official controls and other activities, while improving the efficiency of inspections and certification processes.
The draft also envisages the establishment of an information system that will enable digital monitoring and data exchange among competent authorities, as well as an obligation to regularly inform the public about the results of official controls. In addition, the law strengthens cooperation among inspection bodies, the police, and other institutions in detecting and preventing food-related fraud.
It is expected that the new rules will contribute to greater legal certainty, transparency, and competitiveness of domestic producers, as well as to the unhindered export of food and animal-based products to the European Union market.
Injac Attorneys remains available to companies in the agriculture and food industry sectors for legal support in preparing and aligning their operations with the new legal obligations arising from the implementation of the Law on Official Controls.
The information contained in this document does not constitute legal advice on any specific issue and is provided solely for general informational purposes.
