The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management, Vladimir Joković, stated in the “Referat” show that the government offers numerous benefits for those who want to engage in agriculture, with subsidies of up to 70% available for various forms of support. He emphasized that Montenegro provides advantages not found in the surrounding region.
Commenting on Montenegro’s food trade, Joković pointed out that in 2024, the country imported food worth 772 million euros, while exports totaled only 54 million. He explained that “total food” includes products like juices and alcoholic beverages, which in other countries are separate industries, but in Montenegro, they are part of agriculture.
Over the last decade, agricultural production in Montenegro has increased by 78%. Joković noted that the rising number of tourists is driving up consumption. While imports will continue, the government is focused on supporting agricultural producers with various subsidies and measures to help them produce more, ensuring economic benefits for those staying in rural areas.
Joković highlighted one of the major challenges facing rural areas, which is the common belief that people should leave the countryside. He explained that a significant issue is the departure of women from rural areas earlier than men, which affects family formation. The government is offering support, but Joković acknowledged that other professions seem more appealing than agriculture.
He stressed that Montenegro is a significant producer of wine, raw milk, eggs, and poultry, but there is a large import of beef, pork, and grains. The Ministry of Agriculture offers subsidies for building barns (up to 50%), with up to 70% support for those under 40 years old. There are also subsidies for purchasing machinery and per-hectare assistance for cultivated land.
Joković expressed confidence that those receiving this support could create a better life than even some ministers in the government. He added that the number of registered agricultural farms in Montenegro has grown by 3,000 to 4,000 since 2021, with an emphasis on consolidating production rather than just increasing the number of farms.
The Ministry is also working on a new Agricultural Law, which might include monthly allowances for farmers at higher altitudes with fewer sources of income. Joković is satisfied with the development of rural tourism, with most capacities already filled.
He called on farmers to insure their property and stated that the government covers 85% of the insurance costs. He also suggested that more attention should be given to greenhouse production, which he believes is safer, and mentioned that 2,500 greenhouses had been distributed two years ago as a successful initiative.
Finally, Joković noted the significant shortage of labor in agriculture, urging citizens to engage in farming and support local products.
