The Montenegro Transport Association has raised concerns regarding the competitiveness of domestic road-haulage companies, emphasizing that they are entering a more competitive European market without adequate state support. On 11 July, the association highlighted issues such as weak capitalization and relatively small fleets as significant barriers to competitiveness.
According to the association’s president, Đorđije Lješnjak, Montenegrin carriers are at a disadvantage compared to their Croatian counterparts, who benefit from a more structured national approach. This disparity may force Montenegrin operators into low-margin roles, potentially relegating them to subcontractors or cabotage providers as integration with the EU market deepens.
While the statement reflects an industry perspective rather than independently verified data, it underscores a legitimate structural risk within Montenegro’s logistics sector. Companies must invest in cleaner vehicles, digital tachographs, driver retention strategies, insurance, and compliance with EU regulations, all while operating from a limited domestic freight base. Without consolidation or targeted financial support, the opening of markets could enhance trade efficiency but diminish the domestic share of transport revenues.
In related developments, a draft Inland Navigation Law is being considered, which could establish a distinct investment channel for areas surrounding Lake Skadar, the Bojana River, and Rijeka Crnojevića. This proposal aims to create technical and environmental regulations, implement a river-information service, manage ports and berths, and explore options for concessions and public-private partnerships.
The potential immediate impact of this legislation appears modest; however, a more defined concession framework could facilitate regulated passenger transport, marinas, tourism services, and environmental infrastructure in regions that have historically operated under disjointed regulations.
