Đeljošaj: Montenegro is in the phase of intensifying economic reforms and accelerating European integration

Montenegro is in the phase of intensifying economic reforms and accelerating European integration, with the quality of policies aimed at enterprise development representing one of the key indicators of readiness for the next phase of EU accession, announced Minister of Economic Development Nik Đeljošaj.

Today in Budva, he opened the regional presentation of the OECD publication SME Policy Index: Western Balkans and Turkey 2026, one of the most significant international reports that evaluates policies to support small and medium-sized enterprises in the region.

The event brought together representatives of the OECD, the EU, international institutions, the diplomatic corps, as well as representatives of institutions and businesses from the Western Balkan countries and Turkey.

"Organizing this event in Montenegro represents a confirmation of regional cooperation and continuous reform activities that the state is implementing to improve the business environment and strengthen the competitiveness of the economy," the Ministry announced.

Special focus is placed on digital transformation, green transition and strengthening the resilience of the economy.

In this context, the activities that Montenegro is implementing to improve the regulatory framework, digitalize public administration, develop electronic services, as well as invest in broadband infrastructure and develop digital skills were presented.

Speaking about the green transition, Đeljošaj emphasized that Montenegro, as an ecological country with significant potential in the field of renewable energy sources, sees sustainable development as an important element of the future competitiveness of the economy, through the development of solar and wind energy, energy efficiency, sustainable tourism and modernization of transport.

During the event, it was also emphasized that the SME Policy Index provides an objective overview of the progress of countries in the region in the area of ​​small and medium-sized enterprise development, including improving the regulatory framework, institutional support for business, and digitalization of public services, but also identifies areas where additional reform efforts are needed.

"The Ministry of Economic Development remains committed to implementing reforms aimed at building a competitive, innovative and sustainable economy, with strong support for the small and medium-sized enterprise sector and continued alignment with European standards and practices," the statement concluded.