The Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro, the country’s oldest national business association, strongly supports Montenegro’s accession to the European Union and is actively preparing domestic companies for the conditions of the single European market, said Chamber President Nina Drakić.
Speaking at the 7th edition of the European Parliament of Enterprises, Drakić emphasized that EU accession is not only a political but also an economic process requiring active participation of the private sector. “Without a competitive economy, there can be no successful integration, and without well-prepared companies, there can be no progress for the national economy,” she stated.
Drakić noted that the Chamber contributes to Montenegro’s EU negotiation process by participating in working groups focused on aligning national legislation with EU standards while maintaining a favorable business environment and enhancing competitiveness.
She highlighted several challenges facing Montenegro’s economy, including decarbonization and digital transition, limited financial and human resources, a shortage of skilled labor, low investment levels, and the informal economy. These factors, she said, reduce the country’s potential for higher economic growth.
However, Drakić expressed optimism that, with support from European partners, funds, and regional initiatives, Montenegro can accelerate progress in the final phase of its EU integration process—particularly through investments in infrastructure, energy, and agriculture.
She underlined the key role of chambers of commerce as a bridge between government and business, noting that the Montenegrin Chamber has long organized dialogues with the government, municipalities, and international partners to develop policy solutions based on real economic data and European best practices.
Drakić concluded that chambers of commerce act both as promoters of European values among enterprises and as partners of the European Commission in implementing policies that bring tangible benefits to businesses and citizens. She reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to being a reliable partner of European institutions in building a competitive and sustainable European economy.
During her visit to Brussels, Drakić also attended the annual assembly of Eurochambres, where Vladimír Dlouhý was re-elected as president.
