The Employers’ Union (UPCG) is once again pushing for Sunday work hours ahead of the season. According to its president, Slobodan Mikavica, the Union will engage not only with social partners but also with lawmakers on this matter.
The Union has received information from the Small Traders Association indicating a significant decline in this sector since the adoption of the Trade Law in 2019. Mikavica stated that the number of small businesses has dropped from over 480 to just over 230, with many companies ceasing operations.
He noted that many foreign companies considering business expansion in Montenegro have reconsidered due to the prohibition of Sunday trading. These large brands, accustomed to generating 50% of their revenue on Sundays in other countries, decided against entering the Montenegrin market.
Despite previous agreements between social partners, Mikavica claims that large wholesalers, who were the primary advocates for Sunday work, have found ways to circumvent the rules. A Sunday work allowance of 80% of regular wages has created disincentives for expanding operations.
Mikavica referred to an agreement reached within the Social Council to test the impact of Sunday work for one year, particularly during the summer season. The idea is to assess whether employers comply with their obligations and whether employees are truly benefiting from the higher pay and additional day off.
The Constitutional Court has not yet ruled on a disputed article in the Trade Law that the Employers’ Union challenged. In a similar case, Croatia’s Constitutional Court allowed 16 Sunday workdays per year, which Mikavica hopes will inspire a similar ruling in Montenegro.
The Employers’ Union has sent a proposal to the Ministry of Economic Development and to lawmakers to align positions without changing the law. Small traders are requesting the ability to operate for four months during the peak season to sustain their businesses. However, there is resistance to this proposal from parliament, unions, and the public.
