The National Bank of Serbia published an overview of recent economic and foreign trade indicators, pointing to stronger industrial and export performance in May 2025 alongside firmer retail activity and weaker tourism indicators. Industrial production increased by 4.4% year on year in May, driven by manufacturing growth of 7.0%, while mining and energy declined by 4.4% and 5.7% respectively. Within manufacturing, 16 of 24 areas recorded growth, with motor vehicles and rubber and plastic products making the largest contribution, linked to increased capacity in the automotive industry. Over January–May 2025, industrial production rose by 2.5% year on year, supported by manufacturing (4.2%) and mining (2.0%) despite a 4.7% fall in energy. Retail trade turnover rose by 5.6% in real terms in May and by 1.8% over January–May, while tourist arrivals and overnight stays fell by 3.8% and 5.1% in May and by 3.1% and 4.5% over January–May. In foreign trade, goods exports increased by 17.3% year on year in May and by 10.2% over January–May, while goods imports rose by 6.8% in May and by 11.5% over the year to May.
National Bank of Serbia 2025-06-30
National Bank of Serbia reports May industrial production up 4.4% and goods exports up 17.3% year on year
The National Bank of Serbia reported stronger industrial and export performance in May 2025, with industrial production up 4.4% year on year, driven by manufacturing growth of 7.0%. Retail trade turnover increased by 5.6% in May, while tourism indicators weakened. Goods exports rose by 17.3% year on year, contrasting with a 6.8% increase in imports.