The Serbian Government will discuss the 2026 state budget proposal, with the main goals being raising living standards, developing infrastructure, and boosting investment, Finance Minister Siniša Mali announced.
He said the budget proposal, exceeding 1,200 pages, will be submitted to Parliament by the end of November. The 2026 budget is based on a stable macroeconomic framework, with wage growth of 5.1% in January 2026, continued infrastructure investment, and controlled public finances.
Mali highlighted Serbia’s strong financial position, noting record foreign exchange reserves of €30 billion, record gold reserves, and low unemployment. The average salary reached €950 in August and is expected to exceed €1,000 by December, while pensions will increase by 12.2% on December 1.
A total of 740 billion dinars will be allocated for infrastructure projects, with less than 10% directed toward Expo 2027 preparations. Serbia expects economic growth of at least 3% in 2026 and aims to accelerate to 4.5–5% by 2027, keeping the budget deficit below 3% in line with IMF recommendations.
The health sector will see the largest budget increase—over 60 billion dinars when combining the Health Insurance Fund and the Ministry of Health—followed by additional funding for education, including 12 billion dinars for higher education and universities.
Mali also said that the refund of 50% of tuition fees for students will continue tomorrow, covering more than 5,000 students so far, and urged those without student ID cards to obtain them, as refunds are paid directly to those accounts.
Regarding NIS (Serbian Oil Industry), Mali said budget flexibility allows the government to respond as needed while discussions continue between the Russian side and U.S. representatives to find a solution ensuring market stability.
