Montenegro has secured a €33 million development loan from the World Bank, aimed at significantly modernizing its fisheries sector. Approved in late 2025, this financial package addresses critical infrastructure deficiencies, logistical challenges, and institutional limitations that have hindered the sector’s efficiency and market access, despite the country’s rich maritime heritage and extensive coastline.
The loan was developed in collaboration with Montenegro’s fiscal and agricultural authorities, focusing on two main goals: implementing substantial capital investments and enhancing governance to align with European Union standards. The initiative seeks to not only construct new facilities but also to fundamentally revamp the sector, improving aspects such as value retention, traceability, food safety, and long-term sustainability within capture fisheries and related agri-food sectors.
Central to this investment initiative is the establishment of Montenegro’s first fully modern fishing port in Ulcinj, located near Velika Plaža. This facility is set to feature cold-storage capabilities, infrastructure for landing and first sales, maintenance services, and controlled logistics areas. By addressing key issues like post-catch losses and product quality inconsistencies, the port aims to enhance operational efficiency for local fishers and facilitate their access to higher-value domestic and export markets.
The program also prioritizes strengthening institutional capacities. A significant aspect includes the creation of a regional office for the national payments agency, which will bolster Montenegro’s ability to manage fisheries and agri-food support schemes in accordance with EU regulations. This development is essential for future eligibility for EU structural funds and ensuring a transparent allocation of subsidies.
Additionally, the reform package outlines plans for broader operational enhancements within the sector. Proposed actions include upgrading landing sites, improving monitoring systems, and fostering professional development among fishing cooperatives and producer organizations. Training initiatives will be implemented to assist operators in meeting new sustainability standards and compliance requirements as Montenegro progresses toward EU accession.
While the financial commitment represents a significant investment for the local fisheries sector, policymakers recognize that risks related to execution remain high. The success of this program will depend on timely project implementation, effective coordination between central and local authorities, and the ability to translate infrastructure improvements into increased income for fishers. Industry representatives have emphasized the necessity for concurrent investments in fleet modernization, fuel efficiency, and market organization to maximize the benefits of these infrastructure upgrades.
Implementation is anticipated to gain momentum in 2026 with preparatory activities, tendering processes, and initial construction phases occurring alongside institutional reforms. If executed as intended, the World Bank-supported initiative could transform fisheries from a marginal coastal activity into a robust component of Montenegro’s blue economy, featuring enhanced revenue streams, improved regulatory compliance, and stronger connections to tourism, hospitality, and regional food supply chains.
