Consumers across North Macedonia, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina have launched a mass boycott of supermarkets in protest against soaring prices of essential goods. The movement began in Croatia, where it has already shown results—some retail chains have announced price cuts on hundreds of products.

In North Macedonia, citizens organized the boycott through social media, voicing their frustration over the sharp rise in prices. Reports indicate that major supermarkets were half-empty, while retailers reported a drop in sales. Several political parties and organizations backed the protest, accusing the government of failing to implement effective measures to protect consumers.

The government, in response, said it would engage in dialogue with retailers and producers to find a long-term solution to price increases. However, some economic experts warned that while the boycott may have short-term effects, it is unlikely to lead to lasting changes without regulatory intervention.

In Croatia, the boycott resulted in a significant decline in retail sales. The country’s tax administration reported a 42% drop in revenue and a 31% decline in issued fiscal receipts by 3 p.m. local time. Large supermarket chains, including Kaufland and Konzum, responded swiftly, announcing price cuts on more than 1,000 products.

The Croatian government, reacting to the protest, expanded its list of price-controlled essential food items from 30 to 70.

The boycott, which originated in Croatia, has quickly spread across the region. In Serbia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, supermarkets have also seen a decline in sales, prompting some retailers to introduce discounts and special offers.

In North Macedonia, local artisans urged consumers to support small domestic producers instead of large supermarket chains. Economic experts warned that only systemic reforms and stricter price controls could provide a sustainable solution to the crisis.

The mass boycott is a clear signal that consumers in the Balkans are unwilling to accept rising prices without resistance. While some retailers have already responded with price reductions, it remains uncertain whether these actions will bring lasting relief or only temporary discounts. Experts stress that long-term solutions will require cooperation between governments, retailers, and producers to establish a stable pricing policy.