Submission of applications to the European Union Public Call for Agriculture and Rural Development IPARD II for Measure 3 will be possible from February 6 to March 6 this year.
This was announced at the conference of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management (MAFWA) held in the European House.
This measure, "Investments in physical capital for the processing and marketing of agricultural and fishery products", is intended to support processing capacities and improve entities in the food business, so that they meet EU standards in terms of food safety and place products on the market without hindrance, it is stated in announcement of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.
"Eligible costs through Measure 3 range from 40.000 euros to 1.500.000 euros," the statement added.
The Minister of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Vladimir Joković, said that the Government has an economic interest in developing the agricultural and rural structure of the country and launching all mechanisms to effectively implement the IPARD program.
"The funds from this fund will help Montenegrin agriculture to prepare for serious competition on the single market. With this public invitation, the processing sector will have the opportunity to start or improve existing business, through investments in equipment, machines and devices for processing, procurement of specialized vehicles, procurement of equipment for environmental protection and equipment for renewable energy sources," said Joković.
Ingve Engstrom, Head of the Department for Cooperation from the Delegation of the European Union in Montenegro, said that IPARD funds can make a significant difference in the agricultural sector with "permanent benefits for a larger number of residents in rural areas."
He emphasizes that the program is a very practical preparation of the country, the national administration, farmers and agribusiness for EU accession.
"We need to invest more, to become more self-sustainable in terms of food, energy and economic development. And the importance of switching to green and digital is greater than ever," said Engstrom.
He adds that if there is a sector in Montenegro that can give more and better for the future, it is agriculture.
"Together with the national authorities, we want to support farmers and agribusiness with a clear vision and plans. There is great support from the EU for you and the agricultural sector," said Engstrom.
Ana Knežević shared her experience as a beneficiary of support funds from the IPARD II program.
"Our company recognized the importance of linking primary production and processing, which was made possible by the use of funds from MEASURES 1 and 3 of the IPARD II program. It is very important that we have the opportunity to realize our ideas and business operations while using all the advantages available to us through programs like this," said Knežević.
Joković invited all those interested to apply for the public invitation and take part in the workshops, which will be organized during the info campaign.
"During the duration of the public call, open house days will be organized in the Directorate for Payments, where every interested user will solve all their doubts in direct communication with the employees working on the implementation of this public call," the announcement concludes.
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