Ranko Jovović, heading the Tourism and Hospitality Association Committee of the Chamber of Economy (PKCG), forecasts a promising summer tourism season based on burgeoning hotel reservations and bookings. He also underscores the pivotal role of agrotourism in Montenegro’s future economic landscape.
Jovović’s positive projections are buoyed by pre-season indicators such as increased traffic and excursion activities, alongside robust hotel bookings signaling a potentially record-breaking season ahead.
While expressing optimism, Jovović acknowledges persisting challenges, notably ongoing road infrastructure projects crucial for ensuring a seamless experience for tourists. The Tourism Committee, in a recent meeting, outlined 23 recommendations to the government aimed at addressing various issues affecting the forthcoming summer season.
Highlighting tourism’s economic significance, Jovović cites record revenues from the previous season. However, he notes challenges like escalating costs and workforce shortages, urging government action to tackle issues such as the informal economy hindering sectoral growth.
Proposing solutions for workforce shortages, Jovović suggests vocational training and incentives to retain seasonal workers, drawing inspiration from EU practices. He emphasizes the need for strategic interventions to address seasonality and workforce retention.
On infrastructure challenges, Jovović advocates for improved road networks to alleviate traffic congestion, proposing alternatives like water transportation for tourists. He also stresses the importance of air connectivity, proposing subsidies to attract low-cost airlines year-round.
In addition to coastal developments, Jovović underscores the potential of mountain tourism, urging the completion of ski resort projects and integration of northern regions into a cohesive ski destination. He highlights initiatives to develop mountain areas like Bugićevica and foster cross-border tourism cooperation.
Jovović reiterates the importance of government support for tourism, emphasizing the need for policies to stimulate economic growth in northern regions and streamline regulations to encourage investment and development.
The Tourism Committee’s future plans include regional collaboration to market Montenegro as a unified destination and enhance its appeal to international markets like China, India, and the United States.
In conclusion, Jovović underscores ongoing efforts to bolster Montenegro’s economy through tourism promotion, infrastructure development, and regional cooperation, highlighting the collective responsibility of businesses and policymakers in shaping a prosperous future for Montenegro’s tourism industry.
