In an interview with The Region, Snežana Đurović, Director of The Montenegrin Investment Agency (MIA), spoke about the unique potential of her country that draws investors from around the world, untapped opportunities, the most attractive sectors for investment, and her hopes for continued growth in foreign direct investments (FDI) in the years to come.
How much FDI have you attracted over almost two decades? What, besides unique natural potential, do you offer investors?
Since 2006, Montenegro has attracted more than €14 billion in foreign direct investments, an exceptional achievement for our economy.
In addition to its unique natural resources, Montenegro attracts investors with its strategic location at the crossroads of major European routes, favourable tax rates, straightforward administrative procedures, and a wide range of incentives. Our country offers diverse sectors that are attractive for investment, including tourism, renewable energy, IT, and agriculture, which we focus on because they offer significant opportunities for long-term sustainability and growth.
What exactly is your role, and what services do you provide to potential investors? Do you offer specific projects, provide essential information, or connect them with local businesses?
Our role is to provide reliable support for investors throughout all stages of their projects. We provide information about the business environment, legislation, and available incentives, present specific investment projects, connect investors with local partners and institutions, and facilitate all administrative procedures. At The Montenegrin Investment Agency, we strive to ensure that every project is executed efficiently and in the best interests of both the investors and the state.
While much has been done to improve the business environment, introduce competitive tax rates, and create incentives, there’s still room for further improvement in the investment climate, isn’t there?
The Government of Montenegro is enhancing the business environment through reforms such as digitalisation of procedures, strengthening legal security, and improving infrastructure. Montenegro has recently joined SEPA and aims to become an EU member by 2028, driving further institutional and economic reforms. A new Law on Strategic Investments will soon be adopted to attract and facilitate major investment projects.
Supporting the ICT sector, the Government is introducing incentives, establishing the Innovation Fund, and opening the Science and Technology Park, positioning Montenegro as an innovation hub in the region. Ongoing efforts include harmonising regulations with EU standards, simplifying procedures, and improving infrastructure to boost investor confidence and economic growth.
As an Agency working closely with the Government, we support these processes by assisting investors and facilitating project implementation.
Finally, is there a simple answer to the question—why Montenegro and not another country in the region? And what are the underutilised potentials that should be invested in?
Montenegro offers a unique combination: strategic location, political stability, favourable tax policies, and abundant natural resources. Our openness to foreign investors and willingness to collaborate to meet their needs make us competitive. Untapped potential lies in sectors such as renewable energy, health tourism, IT development, and agriculture, which provide significant opportunities for innovative projects and sustainable development.
