Europe > Montenegro
1. Montenegro is a strategically located, unilaterally euroized economy. After gaining independence in 2006, the country was buffeted by the Global Financial Crisis. Following a period of tourism-driven growth averaging 4 percent in 2015-19, the economy was hit hard once again by COVID, contracting by over 15 percent in 2020. A strong recovery has taken root since 2021, and tourism has exceeded its pre-pandemic levels. The war in Ukraine has significantly impacted the economy through both real (via robust consumption growth due to migrants) and nominal (via inflation) channels, thereby improving its fiscal position. However, on current policies Montenegro's fiscal position is likely to gradually weaken once again over the medium term.
MONTENEGRO
On behalf of the Montenegrin authorities, we would like to thank the team led by Mr. Seshadri, for their constructive exchange of views during the mission and the comprehensive staff report on the Article IV Consultation.