Serbia has joined the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), enabling faster and cheaper international payments in euros for citizens and businesses. Nenad Petrović, General Director of the Payment System Sector at the National Bank of Serbia, emphasized that lower fees and shorter payment processing times will benefit all users of payment services. The SEPA system brings standardization and alignment with European regulations, with the first benefits expected as early as May next year. This move marks a significant advancement in improving Serbia’s payment transactions with EU countries and the region.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the benefits of SEPA membership for ordinary citizens and small businesses, highlighting the reduction in transfer fees and the facilitation of remittances from the diaspora. They may also focus on the integration with European financial standards as a positive step towards economic modernization and regional cooperation.
Center: Center-leaning sources report on the technical and economic advantages of Serbia joining SEPA, focusing on the expected improvements in payment speed, cost reduction, and alignment with EU regulations. They present the information in a factual manner, emphasizing the benefits for both the economy and consumers without strong political framing.
Right: Right-leaning media might highlight the sovereignty aspects, stressing that Serbia’s inclusion in SEPA despite not being an EU member shows the country’s growing economic independence and ability to engage with European systems on its own terms. They may also emphasize the positive impact on Serbian businesses and the reduction of costs as a boost to the national economy.
