Labeling & Language Requirements in the Balkans: What Every Exporter Should Know

Expanding your food or consumer goods business into the Balkans is an exciting opportunity, but it comes with a maze of regulatory and linguistic specifics. One of the most common blockers for international businesses is product labeling, especially language requirements that differ from country to country. In the Balkans, labeling in the local language is a legal obligation. Authorities in each country require that all mandatory product information (such as ingredients, allergens, origin, and storage conditions) are provided in a language that consumers can easily understand. In this article, we bring you an overview of the main differences across Balkan markets.

guide

January 20, 2025

By REGULATORYA Team

supplements registration compliance SEE

Slovenia: Labels must be in Slovenian (Latin). Other EU languages may appear, but all mandatory information must be fully translated into Slovenian.
Croatia: Full translation into Croatian is required (Latin). Labels must use Latin script. English or other EU languages can appear secondarily.
Serbia: Latin is more widely in practice but both Cyrillic and Latin are official. All mandatory text must be translated into Serbian.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Any of the three official languages is accepted (Croatian, Bosnian and Serbian). For national distribution, multi-language labels are often used.
Montenegro: Labels must be in Montenegrin. Latin script is most commonly used, but both Latin and Cyrillic are official.
North Macedonia: Macedonian language is official in the country, however due to recent Consumer protection law, both Macedonian and Albanian label translation is mandatory. Cyrillic is the official script for Macedonian text and Latin for Albanian.
Albania: All mandatory information must be in Albanian. English or other languages can appear only additionally.
Kosovo: Both Serbian and Albanian languages are official, but Albanian is predominant and mandatory in practice.
Bulgaria: Labels must be in Bulgarian using Cyrillic script. Translations in other languages are optional but secondary.

Common Mistakes Foreign Companies Make — and How to Avoid Them

❌ Mistake #1: Assuming one label fits all Balkan markets

Many exporters try to use a single “regional” label in English or a mix of local languages. Unfortunately, this rarely meets legal standards, and differences between languages can be minor but lead to incompliance or consumer complaints.

✅ Solution: Prepare country-specific labels or ensure your multi-language design includes every required translation in the correct official languages and scripts.

❌ Mistake #2: Using automated or poor-quality translations

Direct or automated translations often miss legally prescribed terminology (e.g., allergen names, nutritional terms, or warnings).

✅ Solution: Work with professional translators familiar with food regulatory terminology or consult local compliance experts to validate translations before printing.

❌ Mistake #3: Overlooking font size and legibility requirements

Even if your translation is correct, text that’s too small or unclear can result in penalties, particularly in case local stickers are applied to original packaging.

✅ Solution: Follow national packaging regulations that define minimum font sizes and visibility standards. Local partners or consultants can help verify design compliance.

❌ Mistake #4: Missing importer information

Most Balkan markets require that the name and address of the local importer or distributor appear on the label.

✅ Solution: Coordinate with your local partner early in the process and ensure this information is integrated before printing labels.

How to Ensure Smooth Market Entry

Conduct a labeling audit before shipment to confirm compliance in all target countries.
Engage local experts familiar with national legislation updates and language nuances.
Monitor regulatory changes — labeling laws in the region evolve frequently, especially as Balkan states align more closely with EU food law.

The Balkan region offers enormous potential for international food and consumer goods brands with population of over 30 million, but success depends on getting the details right, especially when it comes to language and labeling.

At REGULATORYA, we specialize in helping global companies navigate these complex requirements. From label reviews and translation validation to full compliance strategies for Balkan markets, our expertise ensures your products reach consumers smoothly and legally.

Need support with building your product launch strategy, labeling or registration in the Balkans?