FROM AGRICULTURE TO TOURISM: LAVENDER FROM SEMBERIJA IS BECOMING A BRAND

Although they are only at the beginning of developing organic lavender production, producers in Semberija are already achieving significant results. This was confirmed during the “Lavender Days in Semberija” event, which brought together producers, institutional representatives, and lovers of natural products.

PHOTO: Sanja Trifković - Instagram

The owner of the “Lavanda Semberija” farm, Svjetlana Marković, told ATV that lavender growers in this part of Republika Srpska are pioneers in organic production.

These are pioneering steps. We are pioneers in organic production, which is a more challenging path, but each of us knows why we chose it. We are confident that we will pave the way and that many other agricultural producers will follow our example - Marković told ATV.

Ministry Support for Organic Producers

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of Republika Srpska says that organic production enjoys full institutional support.

Dragana Zec, Head of the Department for Organic Production, told ATV that the growing interest among producers indicates that support measures are moving in the right direction.

Every expression of interest from our organic producers is a sign that we are doing a good job. The Ministry regularly supports organic producers, and “Lavanda Semberija” is one of the beautiful projects in Republika Srpska - Zec told ATV.

The Number of Organic Producers in Republika Srpska Is Growing

Although organic production still does not account for a significant share of the overall economy of Republika Srpska, trends show growth and increasing interest among producers.

Vladimir Milićević from the Association of Organic Producers “Organic from Srpska” told ATV that producers choose this demanding process because it ultimately brings substantial value.

Everyone entering organic production is aware that it is extremely difficult, but once they reach the final product, have it certified, marketed, and sold, they know it is truly worth the effort - Milićević told ATV.

Data from the Chamber of Commerce of Republika Srpska also confirms the growth of organic production.

Srđan Marinović from the Regional Chamber of Commerce in Bijeljina told ATV that the number of organic producers in Republika Srpska has reached around 135.

We are seeing significant growth in the number of organic producers in Republika Srpska. There are now around 135 of them, and the educational and promotional activities carried out by the Chamber of Commerce provide strong support for this sector - Marinović told ATV.

Growing Demand for Organic Products

Producers emphasize that demand for organic products continues to grow, while market prices make production economically viable. However, organic farming requires a great deal of work, higher investments, and additional institutional support.

According to producers, the further development of healthy food production in Republika Srpska will depend on even stronger support from the Ministry of Agriculture and other relevant institutions.

Lavender Field Becoming a Tourism Symbol of Semberija

The only lavender field in Semberija attracts an increasing number of visitors every year. In addition to customers seeking lavender-based products and natural remedies, the location has become one of the most popular spots for photography in Bijeljina and the wider Semberija region.

The farm owners plan to continue developing the project so that the lavender field becomes one of Semberija’s recognizable tourist attractions, combining agriculture, tourism, and the promotion of domestic organic production.