Montenegro’s customs-related revenue reached €1.105 billion in the first nine months of 2026, increasing 5% year on year and exceeding the revenue plan by approximately €10.66 million. The Customs Administration collected €51.74 million more than during the same period of 2025. Import VAT accounted for the largest portion of collections, generating €725.98 million, an increase of 5.01% compared with a year earlier.
Excise revenue rose 4.91% to €322.38 million, while customs duties increased 3.97% to €54.71 million. September collections amounted to €133.97 million, representing an increase of around €7.23 million, or 5.71%, compared with September 2025. Revenue increased across all major customs categories during the month. The performance comes as the government prepares for higher capital spending and considers wage reforms that could increase expenditure.
The revenue structure remains heavily reliant on consumption and imports, with VAT and excise duties accounting for a substantial share of recurring budget revenue. This structure supports public revenue during periods of stronger tourism and domestic demand, while also leaving collections exposed to changes in consumption, imports and visitor spending. The government is preparing the 2027 budget amid discussions over the proposed Euro Model wage reform, which could increase payroll costs across the public sector and municipal companies. The revenue performance is therefore relevant to the government’s fiscal position as it approaches year-end budget execution and prepares the 2027 fiscal framework.
