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Montenegro reduces shadow economy to 12.4 percent of GDP
Montenegro is experiencing significant shifts in its economic and political landscape. The Ministry of Finance reported a notable decrease in the shadow economy, which fell from 20.6 percent of GDP in 2022 to 12.4 percent in 2026. This progress is attributed to the Program for Combating the Informal Economy 2024–2026, resulting in increased formal employment and improved compliance, particularly in the construction and hospitality sectors.
Despite these economic strides, experts warn of structural vulnerabilities. Approximately 76 percent of the workforce is currently employed in the service sector. Economic advisors suggest that increasing resilience requires greater investment in agriculture and manufacturing to reduce dependence on services and better utilize natural resources.
On the political front, Germany has reaffirmed its full support for Montenegro’s European integration process. The German Ambassador to Podgorica stated that support is both political and practical, specifically recognizing Montenegro’s progress in combating organized crime and corruption.
Entities
Bosnia and Herzegovina · Center for Democratic Transition · Croatia · Germany · Institute for Economic Research · Institute of Economic Research · Ipsos · Ministry of Finance of Montenegro · Monstat · Montenegro · Montstat · Ribar
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The state should strengthen the agricultural sector through subsidies and reduced duties. rtnk.me
- [● 3 SOURCES] Nearly 76 percent of employees in Montenegro work in the service sector. rtnk.me
- [● 3 SOURCES] There is potential for developing smaller manufacturing plants, such as those producing aluminum and plastic joinery. rtnk.me
- [● 3 SOURCES] Land should be preserved for agricultural use rather than being prioritized for urbanization. rtnk.me
- [● 2 SOURCES] 81% of employees would choose a job with properly paid taxes and contributions even if it meant lower earnings. radiotitograd.me · tvpljevlja.me
- [● 2 SOURCES] The largest reductions in the informal economy were recorded in the construction and hospitality sectors. radiotitograd.me · tvpljevlja.me
- [● 2 SOURCES] The informal economy among registered private enterprises and entrepreneurs in Montenegro decreased from 20.6% of GDP in 2022 to 12.4% in 2026. radiotitograd.me · tvpljevlja.me
- [● 2 SOURCES] The share of employees who frequently or always use a bank card increased from 18% to 43%. radiotitograd.me · tvpljevlja.me
- [● 2 SOURCES] The percentage of citizens requesting a fiscal receipt when one is not issued rose from 36% to 43%. radiotitograd.me · tvpljevlja.me