Economic analyst and journalist Predrag Zečević, appearing on Adria TV’s “Press Plus”, assessed that the market boycott was successful, highlighting that citizens demonstrated their power. He emphasized that the only way to combat high prices is by strengthening domestic production.
Zečević explained that, according to his calculations, prices have dropped, citing examples like the price of Milka strawberry chocolate, which dropped from 9-10 euros to 3.89 euros. He also pointed out that the price of Monini olive oil, which had reached 23-35 euros locally, was now aligned with the 13-euro price in Germany.
Zečević argued that the boycott sent a message to what he called the “trading cartel,” signaling that excessive profits at citizens’ expense are unacceptable. He noted that, since the introduction of limited prices, inflation in Montenegro has been among the lowest in the region.
He further criticized the lack of action from the Ministry of Economic Development and stated that inflation would likely be negative in February due to the boycott. He suggested that trade cartels should be penalized with substantial fines, as is done in the US and Australia, and emphasized that the Agency for Protection of Competition should be responsible for enforcing these penalties.
Zečević also highlighted the need for more significant domestic producers to reduce high production costs. He argued that more investments should be made in responsible domestic production, and suggested that the government should focus on encouraging such investments.
