The data on the growth of the gross domestic product (GDP) in the first quarter are encouraging from the point of view of the growth rate of the economy, but at the same time point to a number of other challenges and the need to create a better business environment, according to the president of the Montenegrin Association of Employers (CUP), Vasilije Kostić.
He stated that the issues of extremely large foreign trade deficit and the need for financing remain key challenges, especially in terms of the possibility to significantly improve the performance of the economy in the coming period with incentives to domestic production and tourism, due to the impact on GDP.
The key challenges, according to Kostić, must have the clear attention of the Government, which must have a stronger influence on the creation of a better business environment that would enable the strengthening of the Montenegrin economy.
"Efficient state and local administration, a simple and predictable tax system and dialogue with employers regarding key reforms must be a clear commitment of every government if it wants to create conditions for the domestic economy to be a stronger driving force for economic development," Kostić said.
He added that the prerequisites for attracting credible investors also include clear rules and favorable conditions.
"That's why CUP calls on the Government to make the key document for the review of the announced reforms, the Fiscal Strategy, part of the public debate, the professional public and businessmen, because it is precisely the reforms that will be foreseen in that document for the next medium-term period that will determine, and crucially, influence, the further possibilities of economic development ", assessed Kostić.
According to him, there is no quality environment without dialogue and partnership.
"The government will have a partner in employers, and the voice of employers on business conditions, environment and barriers must be one of the foundations of the announced reforms. Because only by working together can we contribute to the overall development of Montenegrin society", said Kostić.
According to Monstat's preliminary data, Montenegro's GDP grew by 4,4 percent in the first quarter of this year.
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