The long-term development of northern Montenegro will depend on a clear strategic vision, closer cooperation between the private sector and public institutions, and the creation of economic opportunities that encourage people to live and work in the region, according to Hilmija Franca, Director of Meso-Promet. His remarks follow discussions held during the inaugural regional edition of TBM Business Talks – Northern Region.
As one of Montenegro’s leading food industry companies and among the largest employers in the country’s north, Meso-Promet has operated from Bijelo Polje for more than 35 years. Drawing on decades of experience, Franca believes the region possesses considerable, yet still underutilized, economic potential.
“Northern Montenegro has exceptional natural resources, hardworking people, and a long tradition of food production. Agriculture—particularly livestock farming and the food-processing industry—together with tourism, represents the greatest development opportunity for this part of the country. Tourism can become a powerful growth engine because it creates demand for domestic products and stimulates the processing industry, enabling people to remain in rural areas and earn a dignified living from their work,” Franca said.
He stressed that the region’s future should not be viewed solely through the lens of its natural resources but through the integration of agriculture, food processing, tourism, the timber industry, and renewable energy into a unified economic development model.
Speaking about the role of public institutions, Franca emphasized that sustainable regional development cannot be achieved through isolated measures. Instead, production, infrastructure, education, and employment must be treated as equally important pillars of long-term growth.
“Businesses should be seen as partners, not merely beneficiaries of incentives. Companies that invest, create jobs, and generate new value understand the challenges on the ground better than anyone. When a high-quality development project is identified, institutions should respond quickly so that everyone can work together toward its successful implementation,” Franca stated.
As an example of effective public-private cooperation, he recalled the company’s recovery following the 2018 fire, when rapid support from the Montenegrin government, the local municipality, business partners from the European Union, domestic companies, and citizens enabled production facilities to be rebuilt within a remarkably short period.
“That experience demonstrated what can be achieved when everyone works toward a common goal and contributes from their respective positions. It reinforced my belief that open dialogue, mutual trust, and concrete action are the foundations of successful development policies,” Franca added.
Reflecting on Meso-Promet’s 35-year business journey, Franca said the company’s growth has been built through persistence rather than shortcuts.
“There are no shortcuts in business. We have experienced both successful and difficult years, but if you remain honest with customers, employees, and business partners, you will always find a way forward. We have grown step by step by investing continuously in the company, new technologies, and our people. That is why today we can proudly say we have built a company that stands the test of time.”
His advice to entrepreneurs seeking long-term success is straightforward:
“Do not build a business for one year—build it for one generation. If you operate responsibly, invest in quality, and earn people’s trust, the results will come, regardless of the challenges encountered along the way.”
