Reforms in road transport are essential for ensuring efficient mobility, logistics, economic stability and road safety, according to a roundtable titled “Road Transport in Modern Business Conditions.”
Nina Drakić, President of the Chamber of Economy of Montenegro (PKCG), emphasized the importance of dialogue between the private sector, institutions, and international partners to address key issues and development directions in the road transport sector.
The roundtable was organized by PKCG during its presidency of the Association of Balkan Chambers. Drakić highlighted PKCG’s active role in improving the sector through initiatives such as scheduling harmonization, training and certification, and issuing TIR and ATA carnets.
The PKCG’s Road Transport Education Center, accredited by the International Road Transport Union (IRU), has trained nearly 4,900 candidates since its founding in 2017, enabling drivers with KOD95 certification to operate in 59 member countries of the International Transport Forum (ITF).
Minister of Transport Maja Vukićević praised the event and the ongoing reforms in Montenegro’s transport sector. She underscored the significance of digitalization efforts, especially the pilot project for the electronic consignment note (e-CMR), which enhances transparency, efficiency, and integration with European and international standards.
Patrick Philipp, IRU’s Director of Certification and Standards, stressed that reforms in road transport are crucial for mobility, economic stability, and safety. He pointed out the critical challenge of an aging driver workforce, with 30% over 55 years old in Europe, and a shortage of young drivers.
Philipp also highlighted the benefits of the e-CMR system in improving transparency and efficiency in goods transportation. He praised Montenegro’s reform efforts, calling the country a positive example in the region and urging decision-makers to approach reforms strategically with political will and coordinated implementation.
Professor Velibor Peulić emphasized Montenegro’s strategic geographic position and the key role of road transport in connecting the country to regional and European markets. He stressed the importance of adopting e-CMR and eFTI standards to enter a new phase of digital, automated, and transparent logistics.
Željko Bajšanski, a software developer, presented a developing e-platform for creating electronic CMR documents, featuring AI integration for voice-based document generation and enhanced data sharing among participants.
The event concluded that effective reforms require continuous dialogue among institutions, the private sector, and experts. Such reforms are fundamental not only technically but also for Montenegro’s economic resilience, security, and competitiveness.
