Montenegro is set to enhance its digital radio broadcasting capabilities as it transitions from a trial phase to a national infrastructure rollout. This move is expected to open new avenues for the transmission equipment market, network engineering, and digital media infrastructure.
On September 24, the Montenegrin government approved a draft Digital Broadcasting Law, which lays the groundwork for the development of a national T-DAB+ multiplex and broader digital terrestrial broadcasting initiatives.
The DAB+ technology has already been under trial in Podgorica since May, currently reaching approximately 32% of the population. The new legislation aims to facilitate the shift from experimental use to commercial deployment of this technology.
This transition is anticipated to generate demand for various components, including digital transmitters, multiplexing systems, encoders, antennas, network monitoring tools, studio integration solutions, and technical maintenance services.
DAB+ technology allows multiple radio stations to utilize shared digital transmission infrastructure, which could reduce distribution costs once adequate coverage is established and receiver adoption increases. Additionally, broadcasters will be able to provide supplementary services such as program information, graphics, and emergency alerts alongside traditional audio content.
However, for local broadcasters in Montenegro, transitioning to this new technology will necessitate significant investments. Studios will need to connect to the multiplex system, existing technical equipment may require upgrades, and broadcasters will have to manage both analogue FM and digital distributions concurrently during what may be an extended transition period.
The commercial prospects extend beyond the initial construction of the network. Continuous monitoring, software updates, maintenance, and capacity management of the digital broadcasting infrastructure will create ongoing opportunities for specialized engineering firms.
The penetration of DAB+ receivers will play a crucial role in determining the commercial viability of this initiative. The value of DAB+ diminishes if households and vehicles lack access to the signal; thus, adoption hinges on an increasing number of modern cars and consumer radios equipped with digital receivers.
Given Montenegro’s relatively small market size, national rollout may be more feasible as fewer transmitter locations can cover a significant portion of the population. The primary considerations moving forward will be the pace of coverage expansion and pricing strategies for multiplex capacity aimed at broadcasters.
The decision made on September 24 marks a pivotal regulatory step towards establishing a comprehensive digital radio framework in Montenegro. As the country’s radio market shifts from localized DAB+ trials to a potential national infrastructure program, technology suppliers and broadcast engineers are poised for new opportunities.
