The future development of northern Montenegro depends on stronger cooperation between businesses and public institutions, a clear strategic approach and the creation of economic opportunities that encourage people to remain in the region, according to Hilmija Franca, Director of Meso-Promet. His comments followed discussions held during the first regional edition of TBM Business Talks – Northern Region.
Agriculture and Tourism Identified as Key Growth Areas
Meso-Promet, one of Montenegro’s leading food industry companies and among the largest employers in the north of the country, has operated from Bijelo Polje for more than 35 years. Based on the company’s experience, Franca said northern Montenegro has significant economic potential that remains underutilised.
He identified agriculture, livestock farming, food processing and tourism as key areas for development, noting that tourism can create additional demand for domestic products and support the expansion of the processing industry. According to Franca, stronger links between tourism and local production could help rural communities remain economically active and provide opportunities for employment and income generation.
Integrated Development Model Needed
Franca said regional development should not be based only on available natural resources, but on connecting multiple sectors into a unified economic model. The sectors he highlighted include agriculture, food processing, tourism, the timber industry and renewable energy.
He stressed that sustainable growth requires simultaneous progress in production, infrastructure, education and employment, rather than isolated measures focused on individual areas.
Companies Should Be Treated as Development Partners
Discussing the role of institutions, Franca said businesses should be considered partners in development processes rather than only recipients of incentives. He noted that companies investing in production, employment and new value creation have direct knowledge of economic conditions and challenges in local communities. According to Franca, when development projects with strong potential are identified, institutions should respond quickly and cooperate with businesses to support implementation.
2018 Fire Recovery Highlighted as Public-Private Cooperation Example
Franca referred to Meso-Promet’s recovery following the 2018 fire as an example of effective cooperation between businesses, institutions and the wider community. He said the rapid support provided by the Government of Montenegro, the local municipality, European Union business partners, domestic companies and citizens enabled the company to rebuild production facilities within a short period. The experience, he said, demonstrated the importance of open dialogue, mutual trust and coordinated action in implementing development initiatives.
Meso-Promet Growth Built Through Long-Term Investment
Reflecting on Meso-Promet’s 35-year business history, Franca said the company’s development was achieved through continuous investment and gradual expansion. He highlighted investments in the company, new technologies and employees as key elements of its growth. Franca said that maintaining responsible relationships with customers, employees and business partners was essential for overcoming both successful and challenging periods. He advised entrepreneurs to focus on long-term development rather than short-term results, stating that businesses should be built for future generations through responsible operations, quality investment and earned trust.
