Serbia requires all pharmaceutical products to carry Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) as mandated by the Serbian Drugs Law of 1993. This foundational requirement creates a standardized identification system that enables precise tracking throughout the entire supply chain. Each medicine receives a unique identifier that serves as its digital fingerprint, allowing regulatory authorities and supply chain partners to maintain complete visibility over product movement and distribution.

The regulation mandates the use of GS1 DataMatrix barcodes on secondary packaging of all medicines. These sophisticated barcodes encode critical information including GTIN, batch or lot number, expiration date, and unique serial number. This automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technology enables instant verification of product authenticity and facilitates rapid recall procedures when necessary, creating a technological barrier against counterfeit medicines entering the legitimate supply chain.

Serbia operates a comprehensive national traceability system that provides end-to-end visibility from manufacturer to patient. The system utilizes Serialised Shipping Container Codes (SSCC) for logistics tracking, Global Location Numbers (GLN) to identify trading partners and their facilities, and electronic messaging through GS1 eCom Despatch Advice to record all product movements. All transactions are logged in a central database, enabling real-time monitoring and ensuring complete supply chain transparency.

The regulatory framework includes robust recall capabilities that enable rapid identification and removal of specific batches or lots at any level of the supply chain. Serial number verification at dispensing points confirms product authenticity and prevents duplication, while the centralized database allows authorities to trace products back to their origin instantly. This multi-layered approach ensures that any safety concerns can be addressed swiftly while maintaining the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain.