The glossary to understand and take action

Rural Economy Service (SER)

The SER analyses the economic and social situation of agriculture and viticulture and advises operators on the management and direction of their activities, within the scope of its duties.

Administration ou organisme professionnel · Luxembourg Fiduciaries Editorial Team · Reviewed on

Understand the scope

Its role for your business

The economic accounting of an agricultural holding and its tax obligations do not necessarily serve the same purpose. Indicators must be interpreted according to their method of calculation.

In your file

When to contact them and what to prepare

To assess a project, prepare production data, expenses, investments and financing. Distinguish expected profitability from seasonal cash flow needs. Sector analyses provide benchmarks, but decisions must take account of the actual characteristics of the holding and its commitments.

A scenario to help you understand

Educational example

An operator compares two production options by comparing technical requirements, market outlets and financial balances.

Fictitious situation, presented to illustrate the concept.

Prepare for what comes next

Points to check

  • Fiabiliser les données de l’exploitation
  • Distinguer résultat et trésorerie
  • Comparer plusieurs hypothèses

Connecting concepts

Terms to know as well

Continue with the concepts, contacts and procedures related to this topic.

Administration of Agricultural Technical Services (ASTA)ASTA is involved in the technical aspects of agriculture, including production, means of production and rural engineering within its remit. It is a sector-specific point of contact for agricultural holdings.Financial forecastThe financial forecast translates the project's assumptions into expected results, cash flows and financing needs.Working capital requirement (WCR)The working capital requirement (WCR) measures the financing absorbed by the operating cycle, notably inventory and receivables, less operating liabilities.Wine-growing and Viticulture Institute (IVV)The IVV is the administrative and technical contact for the wine-growing sector within its remit. The operations concerned must identify the procedures specific to wine production and marketing.Budget varianceDifference between an actual value and the budgeted value for the same scope and period.Contribution marginDifference between sales and costs that vary with the level of activity, under the management model used.

Put it into practice

Explore further with our guides

Practical guideBudget and actuals: analysing variances in a dashboard

Sources and verification

References consulted on 20 September 2026. Official procedures specify the applicable conditions and exceptions.

This guide explains a general process. The applicable rules depend on your situation; it does not constitute personalised advice. Report a correction.

A definition gives you a reference point. To examine your situation, clarify your question with a professional.