Fiscal Overhaul, EU Accession Face Hurdles Amid Mounting Deficit
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Montenegro is grappling with a looming deficit nearing one billion euros as the government pushes forward with comprehensive new proposals for tax, labor, and pension reforms. These plans, which include higher minimum wages and corporate tax adjustments, have sparked concerns among employers.
The country's path to European Union membership faces uncertainty, with reports indicating a stall in accession talks by five member states. This development comes despite government assurances that new negotiation chapters are slated for closure next week, creating a mixed picture for Montenegro's EU aspirations.
In other significant domestic news, businessman Aleksandar Mijajlović has been remanded in custody on suspicion of forming a criminal organization and cocaine smuggling, marking a new phase in his ongoing legal troubles. Separately, new measures are being proposed to introduce prison sentences for individuals who assault teachers.