In a comprehensive survey of land ownership in Serbia, it has unveiled that Industrija mesa “Matijević” leads the league as the country’s paramount landholder, a revelation that underscores the significant shifts in agricultural dominion within the Balkan nation. Not far behind, a medley of both domestic and international entities, including the UAE’s Al Dahra, Delta Holding, and a series of other notable companies, form the echelon of Serbia’s agricultural elite, according to Forbes.
“Matijević”, with its robust arm “Matijević Agrar”, presides over an expanse of 36,000 hectares across Vojvodina and an additional 2,000 hectares in Croatia, with a staggering 33,000 hectares under direct ownership. This empire, built upon a foundation of 106 companies spanning agriculture to hospitality, recently broadened with the acquisition of “Mitron” group, further augmenting its land and corporate portfolio.
Al Dahra, marking its fifth year as Serbia’s second-largest landowner, solidified its position through a €121 million acquisition of PKB’s assets in 2018, incorporating 17,000 hectares into its fold. This strategic move not only bolstered its agricultural base but also marked a significant UAE footprint in Serbian soil.
“Matijević” itself has been on a spending spree, shelling out €80 million for land, revealing a valuation of €4,700 per hectare, showcasing the lucrative nature of agricultural investments in Serbia.
The narrative of land ownership extends beyond these giants. MK Group, Delta Holding, and a spectrum of others including Almex, Login EKO, and Ćorić Agrar, navigate through thousands of hectares, each with unique contributions to Serbia’s agrarian landscape. From high-tech agriculture to traditional farming, these entities embody the diverse facets of Serbian agriculture.
This land ownership mosaic is not just a testament to agricultural vitality but also reflects the geopolitical and economic currents shaping Serbia. The presence of international investors like Al Dahra and the entrepreneurial ventures of IT moguls turned farmers, such as the Login couple, highlight a blend of local tradition and global ambition.
As Serbia’s countryside continues to evolve under these agrarian titans, questions about sustainability, local community impact, and the future of traditional farming arise. Yet, one thing remains clear: the landscape of Serbian agriculture is as fertile and dynamic as ever, with these landowners at the helm of an ever-changing agrarian narrative.
