Montenegro’s food and agriculture sector, though small in scale, holds significant potential for sustainable and competitive growth, according to Nemanja Grgić, Associate Director at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). He noted that Montenegro’s climate, tourism, and growing demand for quality local products make it an attractive destination for agri-food investment.
The EBRD has long supported small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the Western Balkans through investments, advisory programs, and projects that promote green transition and modernization of food value chains.
Grgić highlighted that the Western Balkans—especially Montenegro—offer strong opportunities in local food production, organic and functional food, and short supply chains. The EBRD, together with the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), has worked with regional SMEs to diversify exports and strengthen access to markets through training, digital tools, and mentoring.
He explained that EBRD’s support covers the entire food value chain—from production and processing to logistics, retail, and distribution. The Bank’s key focus is on sustainable agriculture, green technologies, and efficiency improvements that reduce emissions and resource use.
Main challenges for investors include fragmented land ownership, limited rural infrastructure, and regulatory inconsistencies. To address these, EBRD combines financing with technical assistance and policy support. One example in Montenegro is a project that strengthens links between fruit and vegetable producers and local buyers, improving supply consolidation and product quality.
Sustainability, Grgić emphasized, is central to EBRD’s agri-business strategy. The region faces growing climate risks—heatwaves, droughts, and floods—making green transition essential. EBRD supports companies through sustainability-linked loans, grants for energy and resource efficiency, and digital tools for smart agriculture.
Local food processing and short supply chains are becoming increasingly competitive, supported by rising consumer demand for local and sustainable products. EBRD encourages investment in local production, cold chain logistics, and value-added food processing.
Looking ahead, the Bank’s priorities for Montenegro include improving access to finance for SMEs, upgrading rural infrastructure, and fostering organic and high-value food production. Partnerships—between private companies, government, and international institutions—will be crucial for achieving long-term impact.
“EBRD is not just a financier, but a strategic partner helping companies grow sustainably,” Grgić said, inviting local producers to engage early, seek advisory support, and align their operations with international standards.
