The Swiss company “8B Capital” and businessman Igor Šamiz, who was the only one interested in leasing the Steelworks and Forge in the Nikšić EPCG steel plant, have not been fulfilling their obligations. Despite initial promises to invest tens of millions of euros, Šamiz has only paid two out of seven monthly rent installments of €30,000. According to Svetozar Golubović, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Nikšić-based company, Šamiz’s partners have arrived, but the company has failed to meet its financial commitments.
“8B Capital” signed a 50-year lease for the Steelworks and Forge in July 2024, agreeing to invest €7.75 million within a year and an additional €36.85 million over the next five years. The company also committed to hiring 25 workers monthly, with plans to employ 150 workers within six months. However, delays in payments and worker engagement have raised questions about the contract’s future.
The company cited delays in registering its subsidiary in Montenegro as the reason for the missed payments. Although “8B Capital” was the only bidder for the lease, EPCG is closely monitoring the situation and taking steps according to the contract.
Meanwhile, the Nikšić Steelworks currently employs 260 permanent workers and is involved in the construction of solar power plants. The factory has already installed 10 MW of solar panels on rooftops and land, with plans to produce clean energy. The workers are also engaged in building substructures for a large solar plant in Kapino Polje.
The company continues to meet its obligations, including environmental payments, and aims to improve efficiency to remain profitable. Despite the challenges, the factory’s management is optimistic about the future.
