Press release from the 81st Cabinet session

The Montenegrin Cabinet held its 81st session, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić. The Cabinet adopted the Report on the implementation of the Action Plan for fulfilling the recommendations from the European Commission Report on Montenegro 2024, for the first quarter of 2025. Prepared by the Ministry of European Affairs based on inputs from relevant institutions, this is the first quarterly report designed to monitor the status of implementation of obligations stemming from Montenegro’s European agenda. Given that the deadline for fulfilling all obligations is set for the end of 2026, the report serves as an early warning mechanism in case of potential delays, allowing timely action to be taken to ensure commitments are met. Presented in tabular form, the report aims to promote a proactive approach by ministries and ensure full accountability in implementing EU-related reforms across all policy areas.

The Cabinet adopted the Draft Law on Marine Fisheries. The proposed legislation, aligned with the European Union’s Common Fisheries Policy, lays the foundation for the sustainable use of fishery resources. It regulates commercial, recreational, and scientific fishing, improves monitoring of fishing activities, strengthens the protection of marine species, and enhances mechanisms for conservation and development of aquatic life. As part of Montenegro’s EU accession commitments, specifically Chapter 13 – Fisheries, the draft law will ensure the preservation of fish stocks, protection of marine ecosystems, and better living conditions for fishermen. It also addresses illegal fishing practices and introduces comprehensive regulation without imposing additional costs on citizens or businesses. On the contrary, upon EU accession, Montenegro would gain access to funding opportunities through the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund.

The Cabinet adopted the Draft Law on Aquaculture. This law is necessary to harmonize Montenegro’s legal framework with the EU acquis and enable the implementation of support programmes in the aquaculture sector. It defines the licensing process and fees, locations for aquaculture activities, introduction of non-native and locally absent species, environmental risk assessments, data management, and market placement of aquaculture products. The law also provides for scientific research, the adoption of a national strategic plan, and the establishment of competent authorities, advisory bodies, and committees related to non-native species. The draft law is expected to contribute significantly to the development of the aquaculture sector, fostering competitiveness and enabling effective regulation and operation of all stakeholders involved. This unified legal framework is particularly important, as Montenegro currently lacks a comprehensive law covering both marine and freshwater aquaculture.

The Cabinet adopted the Draft Law on structural measures and state aid in fisheries and aquaculture. This legislation regulates the manner and conditions for providing support through structural measures and state aid to beneficiaries in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The introduction of structural measures is essential to promote sustainable, competitive, and socially responsible fisheries and aquaculture, as well as to encourage the implementation of the EU Common Fisheries Policy and support balanced territorial development in areas where these activities are carried out. This law aligns Montenegro's legal system with the EU acquis and enables the application of support programmes in this field. The draft law also defines the types of state aid, based on support from the national and local budgets, including the conditions for allocation and the maintenance of relevant records. These legislative proposals are expected to strengthen the fisheries sector and improve access to financial incentives for stakeholders.