Smart Growth, Green Future – Accelerating Investment in Montenegro
Montenegro has taken a major step toward a sustainable future by hosting the “Smart Growth, Green Future – Accelerating Investment in Montenegro” conference on 14–15 October 2025. Co-organized by the Government of Montenegro and the European Commission, this high-profile forum was opened by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyengov.me. The event brought together senior Montenegrin officials, EU representatives, international financial institutions, and prominent investors to showcase Montenegro’s growing potential for strategic, green, and sustainable investmentsgov.me. The aim was to position Montenegro as a key investment destination in the Western Balkans by encouraging projects in renewable energy, sustainable agribusiness, eco-tourism, green transport, and digital innovationgov.me. This focus aligns with European values and sustainable development goals, firmly embedding Montenegro’s investment strategy within its EU integration pathgov.megov.me. In his welcome remarks, Prime Minister Spajić noted that the conference marks “a new chapter of development” for Montenegro, as the country brings its vision of “green and smart growth to life” in partnership with the European Uniongov.me.
Montenegro’s Entry into SEPA: A New Chapter in Euro Payments
Montenegro’s Entry into SEPA: A New Chapter in Euro Payments
Montenegro’s integration into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) marks a milestone in its financial development and EU alignment. By joining SEPA, Montenegro has unlocked faster and more affordable euro transactions for its citizens and businesses, bringing its banking system in line with European standards. This blog post analyzes the background of Montenegro’s SEPA decision, the timeline of its implementation, and the specific changes it brings for banks and users – from capped transfer fees to instant payments and integration with EU systems. We also explore the main opportunities (cost savings, regulatory alignment, improved trade and remittance flows) and challenges (compliance burdens, uneven adoption, loss of bank fee revenue) associated with this transition. Finally, we discuss the broader economic and political implications, including what it means for Montenegro’s EU accession ambitions, and offer Kartal Consult’s perspective on how businesses should prepare to leverage these changes.