Montenegro pellet market faces price disputes and legal challenges

Montenegro is experiencing significant tension regarding the pellet market as the heating season approaches. Local producers, represented by the Berane Wood Processors Association, have initiated a legal challenge before the Constitutional Court to review the legality of government-imposed price caps. Producers argue that these restrictions threaten their business viability and risk factory closures and job losses.

In response to reports of sellers bypassing price limits by adding extra charges for transport and packaging, the government has amended its regulations. Minister Milutin Butorović announced that prices for A2 class pellet are capped at 250 euros per ton and A1 class at 270 euros, with a strict prohibition on additional fees. Inspections have already resulted in several fines.

Simultaneously, rising costs are impacting consumers. In regions like Pljevlja, some households are returning to coal heating due to the high cost of pellets, raising concerns about environmental and health impacts. Additionally, Euro Petrol has formally petitioned the government regarding a property dispute involving the Gurman hospitality facility, alleging that authorities have failed to protect their ownership rights despite expired lease agreements.