Finance Minister Novica Vuković announced that Montenegro’s budget revenues have surged by 80 million euros over the first eight months of this year. Speaking on the “Okvir” program, Vuković revealed that preliminary figures indicate total revenues of 1.825 billion euros, marking an increase of 136 million euros compared to the same period last year.
The budget surplus for the initial seven months stands at 42 million euros. Vuković assured that the budget remains fully liquid, with all obligations fulfilled, and current deposits in the state treasury amounting to 600 million euros.
He noted stable revenue streams from VAT, contributions, and profit taxes for 2024. However, expenses have risen, with capital budget implementation 60% higher than the previous year. Vuković anticipates that this positive trend will continue, particularly with the “Evropa Sad 2” program set to launch on October 1.
The minister praised the Fiscal Strategy, which is crucial for the implementation of “Europe Now 2,” describing it as a comprehensive and high-quality document. He dismissed concerns that the program would lead to higher salaries but lower pensions, calling such claims unrealistic.
“There is no reason to worry about pension reductions. Just as the healthcare system continued functioning despite the abolition of contributions, pensions will not be cut,” Vuković stated. He clarified that a citizen currently earning a net salary of 850 euros will see an increase to 902 euros after the reform, though their gross salary will remain the same.
The average gross salary is projected to rise from 1,040 euros to 1,180 euros, which will also increase the value of the personal pension point. Vuković assured that pension amounts will exclusively increase, with significant boosts for those previously earning minimum wages of 450 euros, now rising to 600 or 800 euros.
Vuković also addressed the issue of President Jakov Milatović not signing the reform laws necessary for “Evropa Sad 2,” despite endorsing the budget revision, a move Vuković found peculiar.
