The future development of northern Montenegro hinges on establishing a strategic vision that fosters collaboration between the private sector and public institutions, as highlighted by Hilmija Franca, Director of Meso-Promet. His comments were made during the inaugural TBM Business Talks – Northern Region, emphasizing the need for economic opportunities that encourage residents to live and work in the area.
Meso-Promet, a prominent player in Montenegro’s food industry and one of the largest employers in the northern region, has been operational in Bijelo Polje for over 35 years. Franca asserts that the region possesses significant yet underexploited economic potential, which can be harnessed effectively.
Franca pointed out that northern Montenegro is endowed with remarkable natural resources, a dedicated workforce, and a rich history in food production. He identified agriculture—especially livestock farming—and the food-processing sector, alongside tourism, as key areas for development. He believes tourism has the potential to drive growth by creating demand for local products and boosting the processing industry, thereby enabling people to sustain their livelihoods in rural communities.
He emphasized that the region’s development should not solely focus on its natural resources but rather integrate agriculture, food processing, tourism, timber production, and renewable energy into a cohesive economic framework.
Franca also remarked on the role of public institutions in sustainable regional development, stating that isolated initiatives are insufficient. He advocated for treating production, infrastructure, education, and employment as equally vital components of long-term growth.
According to Franca, businesses should be regarded as partners rather than mere recipients of incentives. He noted that companies capable of investing and creating jobs possess an acute understanding of local challenges. He called for prompt institutional responses to high-quality development projects to facilitate successful collaboration.
Franca cited Meso-Promet’s recovery from a devastating fire in 2018 as an example of effective public-private partnership. The swift support from the Montenegrin government, local authorities, EU business partners, domestic firms, and community members allowed the company to rebuild its production facilities rapidly.
This experience illustrated the potential outcomes of collective efforts towards shared goals. Franca expressed his conviction that open dialogue, mutual trust, and actionable steps form the basis of effective development policies.
Reflecting on Meso-Promet’s 35-year history, Franca noted that the company’s success is attributed to perseverance rather than shortcuts.
He advised entrepreneurs aiming for long-term viability to focus on sustainable growth: “Do not build a business for one year—build it for one generation. If you operate responsibly and invest in quality while earning trust, success will follow despite any challenges.”
