Miško Konić, Secretary of the Economy Department of Budva Municipality, has warned that local businesses operating along the coast and in the maritime zone are facing economic collapse due to being unable to obtain the necessary operating permits, RTV Budva reports.
Konić explained that business closures and threats of sealed premises are not due to law violations by entrepreneurs, but because authorities have not provided the required approvals. The issue has arisen from delays by the Ministry of Tourism in issuing the bathing site atlas, delays by the Public Enterprise for Coastal Management in launching tenders, and slow approvals from the Chief State Architect.
Currently, only 18 of 111 bathing sites have operating permits, and only 15 of 83 hospitality businesses on the promenade have approvals. Konić praised the local tourist inspection for delaying enforcement actions as much as possible, but noted that their options have been exhausted. Fourteen closure orders have already been issued.
Konić called the situation a systemic problem, holding the Government of Montenegro, relevant ministries, the Chief State Architect’s office, and the Public Enterprise for Coastal Management responsible. He urged immediate action to unblock procedures so that businesses can receive permits and the tourist season can be saved, warning that each lost day reduces visitors, revenue, and jobs.
He added that over 38,500 beds have been categorized in Budva, a record number, and emphasized that the municipality has done everything possible to speed up procedures, but the problem lies within the state administration. Konić concluded by urging unity to protect Budva’s tourism season and reputation.
