Montenegro is not price competitive and has long struggled with infrastructure issues and poor air connectivity in recent years. Additionally, it lacks a strategic approach to tourism management, with the sector seemingly left to operate on its own, according to economic analyst Mirza Mulešković.
Commenting on the reported decline in tourist overnight stays, Mulešković emphasized the presence of structural problems. He explained that in 2022 and 2023, many Russian residents living in Montenegro were counted as tourists, but as they became permanent residents, they no longer qualified as tourists. Similar trends occurred with Ukrainian and Turkish visitors, which distorted tourism statistics.
Mulešković noted that Montenegro has not experienced a drastic drop in tourist numbers but rather problems with statistical reporting. He stressed that the country was unprepared for the tourist season, citing ongoing uncertainties about beach ownership and readiness even as summer begins.
He warned that rising taxes have further increased prices, making Montenegro less competitive compared to other countries. Infrastructure challenges remain significant, with roadworks on the main highway expected to cause delays and reduce tourist inflow. Air connectivity is poor both during and outside the season, and airport infrastructure is inadequate, as seen in issues like traffic jams and poor drainage.
Mulešković criticized the lack of strategic tourism management and decision-making, highlighting Albania’s progress in developing infrastructure and attracting low-cost airlines, which now outcompete Montenegro in the region.
On labor shortages in tourism, he pointed to delayed legal solutions and the absence of a unified strategic approach among decision-makers. He also warned that introducing a seven-hour workday could raise business costs by about 12.5%, affecting employers and the wider economy.
He stressed Montenegro’s low labor productivity compared to the EU average and expressed concerns about how the tourism sector would address workforce shortages. Mulešković also criticized the lack of economic analysis on the proposed labor changes and opposed the introduction of mandatory non-working Sundays, calling it discriminatory and populist.
Finally, he highlighted enforcement problems, noting the need for inspections to ensure workers receive mandated rest days, and suggested using fiscalization systems to monitor labor compliance and penalize violations.
