Montenegro’s revised Transport Development Strategy for 2019–2035 identifies approximately €3 billion in potential transport-sector expenditure, covering roads, railways, airports, ports and supporting infrastructure. The framework places greater emphasis on infrastructure modernisation and international financing, while separating airport development priorities from decisions on ownership and management.
The Transport Ministry presented the indicative estimate following public consultations on the updated strategy. It is based on historical spending and potential funding availability, including assistance from the European Union and international financial institutions.
The projected amount does not constitute an approved investment programme or secured financing. Implementation will depend on the government’s budget capacity, access to external funding and the readiness of individual projects.
A key revision concerns the future development of Podgorica and Tivat airports, following the cancellation of the previous concession procedure. The Civil Aviation Agency recommended that infrastructure modernisation be treated separately from decisions on the airports’ operating model, whether public management, private concession or another arrangement.
The ministry incorporated this recommendation into the strategy, distinguishing infrastructure requirements from future ownership and management decisions. Updated master plans for both airports are expected to define investment priorities, including capacity expansion and operational improvements.
The revised document also includes a diagnostic assessment of Nikšić airport and proposals for infrastructure improvements at the Port of Bar. Other strategic measures cover road safety, sustainable transport, alternative-fuel infrastructure and improvements to the efficiency of the national transport network. During public consultations, participants highlighted the need for clearer links between projected expenditure, individual investment measures and realistic funding sources.
The strategy provides international lenders and infrastructure contractors with an indication of Montenegro’s potential transport investment priorities. However, implementation risks remain, particularly for projects dependent on EU grants, concessional loans or additional public borrowing.
The €3 billion estimate represents a potential spending framework rather than a financing commitment. Individual projects will require prioritisation, financially sustainable funding arrangements, defined procurement schedules and identifiable sources of capital. Integrated investment across the transport network could support trade connectivity, tourism capacity and the Port of Bar’s role as a regional logistics gateway.
