The State Market Inspectorate conducted 297 inspections of hospitality establishments across the country between March 17 and April 10, 2025, resulting in numerous fines and temporary closures. The inspections focused on compliance with minimum technical standards and other regulations outlined in the Law on Hospitality Activities, according to government spokesperson Marija Miteva.
A total of 360 misdemeanor payment orders were issued, totaling 3,436,000.00 denars. These fines were levied against various establishments, including disco clubs, open-air disco clubs, night clubs, cabarets, coffee bars, taverns, restaurants, wedding restaurants, bistros, and hotels.
Furthermore, 28 decisions were made to temporarily prohibit businesses from operating, specifically those found to be operating without a license or failing to meet minimum technical requirements. In addition, 12 decisions were issued mandating the correction of irregularities related to offenses under the Law on Hospitality Activities.
Out of 23 legal entities with active licenses, 17 were found to have irregularities concerning minimum technical conditions. The Ministry of Economy and Labor was notified. Subsequently, seven of these establishments rectified the identified issues, as confirmed by follow-up inspections within the legally prescribed 30-day period. This information was also provided to the Ministry of Economy and Labor.
Miteva emphasized that continuous monitoring is in place for remaining legal entities without active licenses or those with pending requests to the Ministry of Economy and Labor that are not currently operating. Appropriate legal measures will be taken as needed.
The inspections are ongoing, and the government anticipates receiving a comprehensive report from all nine departments of the State Market Inspectorate responsible for different regions of the country, covering all 297 inspections conducted.
The government stressed its commitment to strengthening institutional responsibility and rebuilding public trust, viewing this enforcement effort as a long-term priority rather than a temporary initiative.