Production-economic indicators of plum growing in the Republic of Serbia

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to analyze the trend of plum production in the Republic of Serbia in the period from 2014 to 2023, with a special focus on the dynamics of planted areas, total yield and yield per unit area. These parameters show the development of fruit growing and its economic importance for agriculture. Methodology: the approach includes the analysis of official statistics and the application of comparative analysis to identify production trends in the plum sector, both at the national and global levels. Findings: The research results indicate that the Republic of Serbia, with an average annual plum production of 441,420 tons, is positioned as the third largest producer globally, with a share of 3.86% in total world production. Within the structure of Serbian fruit production, plum occupies a dominant position - it is represented on 37.44% of the total area under fruit (behind apple as the leading fruit species in terms of production volume), while its share in total fruit production is 29.23%. Originality/value: This paper contributes to a better understanding of plum production dynamics and its position in international competition, the identification of key factors influencing production outcomes, as well as proposals for measures to improve fruit production in Serbia. Practical implications: It is relevant for experts, decision-makers, and producers in planning and developing the sector. From an economic perspective, it provides indicators for assessing the success and potential of plum production as a basis for long-term strategies. Limitations: A limitation of this research is that it is based primarily on available official statistical data, without a more in-depth analysis of local specificities and individual production practices.