The Government of Montenegro has unveiled a revised draft of the National Transport Development Strategy for 2019–2035, outlining a long-term vision for the country’s transport system. This interim document aims to enhance alignment with EU standards, modernize aviation governance, clarify Public Service Obligation (PSO) regulations, and accelerate decarbonization across various transport modes.
Central to the updates is the aviation policy, which underscores the significance of air connectivity for Montenegro’s tourism-based economy. The strategy recognizes international arrivals as a vital contributor to national GDP, positioning Podgorica and Tivat airports as essential infrastructure rather than merely operational entities. It emphasizes the necessity for operational modernization, energy efficiency improvements, digital passenger processing, and integration into comprehensive multimodal transport networks.
The government also acknowledges the seasonal nature of demand, particularly along the coast, highlighting the need for robust capacity planning. The approach to airport development encompasses not only infrastructure expansion but also adherence to environmental regulations and alignment with EU aviation safety standards, air traffic management reforms, and emissions reduction targets.
A notable shift in policy pertains to the management of PSO routes. The updated strategy specifies that PSO mechanisms should be utilized as targeted, temporary measures rather than permanent market replacements. Subsidized routes are intended primarily to maintain essential connectivity during low-demand winter periods or on key corridors that are not commercially viable.
The framework emphasizes transparency, competitive tendering processes, and strict adherence to EU state aid and competition regulations. In this regard, PSO schemes will be designed to uphold market discipline while ensuring service continuity where connectivity risks may arise.
In addition to aviation considerations, the updated strategy promotes a broader “green transition” within transport policy. It outlines initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions across road, rail, maritime, and urban mobility sectors. These initiatives include expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, developing alternative fuels, promoting modal shifts toward rail and public transport, and implementing intelligent transport systems (ITS).
Infrastructure planning is increasingly aligned with climate resilience standards and EU environmental goals. The drive toward decarbonization is framed as both a regulatory necessity and a factor for enhancing competitiveness as Montenegro progresses in its EU accession efforts and seeks deeper integration into European transport markets.
Strengthening regional connectivity remains a strategic focus. Montenegro’s geographical location within the Western Balkans positions it along significant Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) corridors. The strategy highlights the importance of enhancing multimodal connections between ports, airports, railways, and road infrastructure while improving border-crossing efficiency and digital customs processes.
Institutional reform constitutes another key aspect of the update. The government proposes bolstering regulatory capacity, improving safety oversight, and modernizing governance frameworks in line with EU requirements. This includes enhanced performance metrics for infrastructure operators, increased transparency in public procurement practices, and clearer investment planning timelines.
This document serves as an interim revision that is expected to lead to a finalized strategy defining measurable targets, implementation timelines, and financing structures. Given the ambitious scope – from airport modernization to environmental compliance and PSO restructuring – achieving these objectives by 2035 will necessitate significant capital investment and potential involvement from the private sector in upgrading infrastructure.
The updated strategy reflects Montenegro’s commitment to balancing economic growth with social connectivity and environmental stewardship. The transport system is positioned as a crucial enabler for enhancing competitiveness, tourism resilience, and EU integration over the coming decade.
