Montenegro is preparing amendments to its consumer-protection law that would introduce an EU-style right to repair, strengthen rules on environmental claims and expand obligations for manufacturers, retailers and financial-services providers.
The Ministry of Economic Development opened consultations on the proposals in early September. The legislation is still under preparation and has not entered into force. Manufacturers would be required to offer repairs and spare parts at reasonable prices for certain products after the retailer’s statutory liability period for non-conforming goods expires. The rules would also restrict hardware and software practices that unnecessarily prevent the use of compatible spare parts.
The changes would cover sectors including household appliances, electronics, retail, e-commerce and financial services. Manufacturers and distributors could face longer-term obligations to maintain spare parts, repair information and service networks. For Montenegro’s import-dependent market, local distributors of international brands could carry much of the practical burden. They may need to ensure that repair services and parts available elsewhere in Europe are accessible to Montenegrin customers.
The proposals also target planned obsolescence, while Montenegro is expanding extended producer responsibility for packaging, electrical equipment, batteries and textiles. Independent repair businesses could benefit from greater access to spare parts and technical information. Montenegro plans to join the European Online Repair Platform, with a national section targeted for operation by July 31, 2027. The platform would help consumers identify repair providers and compare services.
The reforms would also tighten rules for distance financial-services contracts, including online cancellation. Banks, insurers and other financial companies could need to modify digital platforms and customer-service procedures.
Environmental marketing would face greater scrutiny, with companies expected to substantiate claims such as “green” and “eco-friendly” in advertising, packaging and product descriptions.
The measures form part of Montenegro’s broader alignment with EU consumer, waste, product-responsibility, banking and digital-commerce rules. International companies already complying with EU requirements may face fewer adjustments, while smaller domestic businesses and local distributors could face higher compliance costs. The final legislation and implementing regulations will determine how the new obligations are applied. If adopted, the reforms would place greater responsibility on companies throughout a product’s useful life, including repairability, durability and after-sales service.
