Montenegro’s regulated eurodiesel price increased by €0.09 to €1.67 per litre on 16 July, prompting the Road Hauliers’ Association to warn that transport tariffs could increase by up to 25 per cent if additional government support is not introduced.
The latest adjustment represents a weekly diesel price increase of approximately 5.7 per cent. During the same revision, heating oil rose by €0.07 to €1.58 per litre, while Eurosuper 95 and Eurosuper 98 increased by €0.02, reaching €1.64 and €1.68 per litre, respectively.
Hauliers report higher operating pressures
The Road Hauliers’ Association issued its warning on 17 July, with association president Đorđije Lješnjak stating that previously discussed measures with the Ministry of Energy and Mining had not been implemented. Lješnjak said transport operators had also lost access to part of the excise-refund mechanism, adding further pressure on companies already facing higher operating expenses.
The proposed 25 per cent freight-price increase represents an industry warning and does not constitute an agreed change in transport tariffs. Hauliers have indicated that they are facing rising costs related to fuel, wages, vehicle maintenance and financing.
Transport costs could affect supply chains
Road freight remains a key part of Montenegro’s supply system, as the country relies heavily on imports of food products, consumer goods and construction materials. Montenegro’s geographic conditions also limit alternatives to road transport for many categories of goods. A significant increase in freight tariffs could affect distribution costs for retail chains, hotels, waste management services and construction companies, particularly during the peak tourism season. Higher logistics costs could also add pressure to consumer prices. Annual inflation in Montenegro stood at 3.6 per cent in June, although retailers may initially absorb part of the additional transport costs to maintain sales volumes.
New fuel price review scheduled
The next regulated fuel price calculation is scheduled for 20 July, with updated prices expected to apply from 21 July.
The system of weekly fuel price adjustments has increased alignment with international market movements but has reduced short-term cost predictability for transport companies and businesses operating under fixed-price delivery agreements.
