Podgorica: Tourism accounts for 25-30% of Montenegro’s GDP and employment, according to Simonida Kordic, Minister of Tourism of Montenegro. She expressed her country’s commitment to sustainable tourism development through strategic initiatives focusing on green, smart, responsible, and inclusive tourism, as well as gaining full membership in the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
According to Emirates News Agency, Kordic emphasized that Montenegro is actively implementing projects to reduce environmental impact. These initiatives aim to develop green capacities and services, including the adoption of internationally recognized eco-standards such as Eco-label, Safe Travel, Green Key, and Blue Flag certifications. Efforts are also underway to accelerate digitalization in the tourism sector, improve energy efficiency, and apply circular economy principles in hospitality businesses. The country is expanding its tourism offerings to include nature-based, rural, eco-tourism, and segments like sports, adventure, and wellness tourism.
Kordic highlighted that Montenegro has established a quality framework for tourism development supported by effective sustainability planning. Tourism contributes 25-30% to the country’s GDP and total employment, while accounting for over 50% of exports, except during the pandemic years. In response to global economic trends and changes in consumer habits post-COVID, Montenegro has adopted a Tourism Development Strategy, with a focus on digital nomads. This strategy considers the growing number of digital nomads worldwide, projected to reach one billion by 2035.
The Government of Montenegro has recognized this trend and prepared a Programme for Attracting Digital Nomads to position Montenegro as a globally attractive destination. The programme aims to develop a favourable environment for digital nomads, increase availability of information and services for them, and enhance recognition of Montenegro as an attractive destination. A dedicated website provides comprehensive information for digital nomads.
Kordic noted that the arrival of digital nomads has been facilitated by amendments to the Foreigners Law, effective August 2022, allowing for a “D visa” issuance and temporary residence permits for digital nomads for up to two years. Regarding international partnerships and investment opportunities, Montenegro has created a favourable investment environment, yielding notable results. Collaborations with renowned hotel brands, such as Regent Hotels and Resorts at Porto Montenegro, have enriched the tourism offering. Public-private partnerships are also directed towards the development of eco-tourism and adventure travel.
Kordic concluded by emphasizing that Montenegro’s destination management activities aim to develop a year-round tourism offer through public-private partnerships and the development of nature-based products.