Economic Consequences of the Pandemic

BETAPHOTO/DRAGAN GOJIC/DS

Possible Mass Layoffs

State aid to the Serbian economy aimed at mitigating the consequences of the pandemic this year prevented the dismissal of a large number of workers, but unions and experts estimate that it will be inevitable in 2021. The most endangered is the service sector, primarily tourism, hospitality and the hotel business, which in mid-December will receive additional aid equaling an average monthly salary, for 72,000 people. According to trade associations’ surveys, 32 travel agencies have shut down so far (of the total 400) along with 100 tourism agents, while 2,200 of the total 4,650 employees in the sector have been laid off.