Decision on special measures for provision of services in the field of retail trade, which includes the sale of food and beverages in catering establishments and the sale of food for carrying

On 21 March 2020, the Government of the Republic of Serbia adopted a Decision on special measures for the provision of services in the field of retail trade, which includes the sale of food and beverages in catering establishments and the sale of carry-on food (the “Decision“).

The Decision does not imply shutting down of catering facilities, but prohibits them from doing their business by serving purchased food and drinks for consumption in the facility or in the garden of the catering facility.

This means that an individual can buy food and drinks only for takeaway, but cannot buy purchased food and drinks at a table or bar in the restaurant or in the garden of the restaurant.

Caterers who want to do their business during the state of emergency have an obligation to set up a delivery service to deliver food and drink for takeaway or to arrange a counter through which food and drink may be sold without entering the catering facility.

Also, hospitality industry workers must be equipped with appropriate hygiene and technical equipment to prevent the spread of infectious disease.

The Decision shall enter into force on 21 March 2020.