Montenegro’s agricultural trade deficit continues to grow, approaching half a billion euros—over 50 million euros higher than last year. Preliminary Monstat data show that imports increased by 11.5 percent in the first half of 2025, while exports fell to just 38 million euros, down 3.7 percent compared to the same period last year.
Analyst Predrag Zečević notes that despite decade-long investments through IPARD projects and agricultural budgets, the trade deficit remains high. He highlights issues with inflation and the high cost of domestic products. Prices for local goods have become prohibitive for citizens and uncompetitive in regional markets—for example, a kilogram of figs in Podgorica costs 5–10 euros, while raspberries are around 9 euros per kilogram.
Zečević also warns that this year’s drought and fires are likely to increase food imports further. Montenegro lacks advanced irrigation systems, unlike countries such as Israel, making it necessary to rethink agricultural strategy and development.
According to the Statistical Office, the largest import expenditures were for meat, dairy products, and eggs, followed by fruits, vegetables, coffee, tea, spices, fish, seafood, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
