The Adriatic Sea remains an untapped resource for Montenegro, and the blue economy provides a pathway for its sustainable development. Sustainable use of marine and coastal resources not only preserves nature but also opens opportunities for innovation, investment, and job creation. The challenge is how Montenegro can turn the Adriatic into a driver of economic growth.
The blue economy involves the sustainable use of marine and coastal resources through activities that link environmental protection with economic development. Key sectors include tourism, fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport, energy, and innovative technologies. The goal is to preserve biodiversity and marine ecosystems while generating new jobs and investments.
Since last year, Montenegro has been a member of the European Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership (SBEP). Membership allows the country to join European and international efforts to conserve and restore marine ecosystems, strengthen resilience, and develop climate-neutral and competitive activities. The partnership aims to achieve a sustainable blue economy by 2030 and ensure preserved marine resources by 2050. Membership also provides access to European funds and research programs under Horizon Europe, enabling Montenegro to participate in transnational projects and develop innovative solutions for sustainable marine resource use.
Sectors with the highest potential for investment and growth include sustainable tourism, aquaculture, and maritime transport. These sectors, leveraging natural resources and Montenegro’s geographic position, can diversify the economy, enhance competitiveness, and create jobs, particularly in coastal communities. Montenegro is already demonstrating competitiveness through sustainable tourism, fisheries, aquaculture, and improved maritime logistics.
However, development is hindered by uneven regulatory frameworks and weak institutional coordination. An integrated approach, including marine spatial planning, stable financing, and improved monitoring, is necessary. Collaboration among local communities, science, and the private sector is also critical. Coastal residents provide insights into local needs, the scientific sector brings innovation and technologies for sustainable resource use, and the private sector implements these solutions through business models and investments. Joint initiatives create synergy, making the blue economy a real driver of growth.
Tourism, while a key part of the blue economy, must be developed sustainably, balancing ecological, economic, and social aspects. Current pressures include over-urbanization, seasonality, infrastructure strain, and pollution. Sustainable tourism models—such as ecotourism, nautical tourism, and resource-protective activities—can extend the season, distribute tourist flows more evenly, and create jobs and value for local communities while preserving cultural and natural heritage.
The private sector is increasingly interested in the blue economy, but government incentives, tax benefits, access to international funds, and education and training programs can further support development. The Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro already participates in EU-funded projects, helping educate businesses on circular practices, skill development, and cross-border collaboration.
Milena Rmuš, Secretary of the Coordination Board for Energy Efficiency at the Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes that the blue economy offers Montenegro the opportunity to use marine and coastal resources sustainably and innovatively, significantly contributing to economic growth and diversification.
