- by croatiaweek
- July 4, 2026
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in
News
Split markets
ZAGREB, 4 July 2026 – Shoppers at markets across Croatia can now see where fresh produce comes from after new rules requiring country-of-origin labelling came into force this week.
From 1 July, all sellers at Croatian markets must clearly display the country of origin alongside the price of fruit, vegetables and other fresh produce. The measure is designed to improve transparency and give consumers more information when making purchasing decisions.
A visit to Dubrovnik’s main market from HRT found traders largely complying with the new requirements by displaying clear origin labels at their stalls.
While the change has been welcomed as a way of providing greater transparency, some long-standing market vendors questioned how much difference it would make for regular customers, many of whom already know and trust local producers.
Alongside the new labelling rules, another significant change has also taken effect. Fruit and vegetables that do not meet traditional cosmetic standards can now be sold more freely, allowing producers to market fresh domestic produce even if it has an irregular shape or appearance.
The move is expected to help reduce food waste while giving growers greater flexibility in selling their harvests.
Despite the regulatory changes, many producers say their biggest challenge remains the weather. Farmers continue to face the impact of high temperatures and prolonged heatwaves, which are affecting crop production during the peak summer season.
Similar concerns have been raised by fishermen, who say unusually warm sea temperatures are becoming an increasing issue. However, fish supplies at Dubrovnik’s market remain strong, with demand continuing to be driven primarily by local consumers.
Many of the farmers and fishermen selling at Croatian markets have been supplying fresh local produce and seafood for decades, with experience and established customer relationships continuing to play an important role alongside the new labelling requirements.
In January, new rules were introduced for supermarkets. Since then, fruit and vegetables offered without packaging must display clear and visible country-of-origin labelling and placed within the main field of vision on shelves or displays.
