The government has opted to prolong the “Limited Prices” initiative, which will impose margin restrictions on certain products until April 30th.

This announcement was made during a press conference after a government session by Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Policy and Minister of Economic Development, Nik Đeljošaj.

“We have decided to extend the campaign for an additional three months, maintaining the same items and quantity of products,” he stated.

Đeljošaj emphasized that all indicators have shown a lack of inflation during the previous period and that prices have stabilized.

When questioned about a market boycott planned by some citizens for tomorrow, he expressed his support for purchasing local products.

“It doesn’t necessarily follow that something beneficial from another country will also be good for Montenegro. I don’t see how developments in Croatia could impact our economy,” he underlined, explaining that research indicates it is much more cost-effective for citizens to limit margins rather than alter prices directly.

Đeljošaj reiterated the success of the campaign, noting that a comparison of identical products in Croatia and Serbia revealed that prices for the same items are lower in Montenegro.

Responding to inquiries about the state of the economy, considering that the state budget for this year has not yet passed, he urged for a resolution to the issue.

“The adoption of the budget is crucial for development; I believe we all recognize that. What will be done regarding capital projects? A serious problem has occurred for the economy, and we must find a swift solution,” Đeljošaj indicated.

He added that the campaign would not have been extended if the markets had been consulted, noting that they do not plan to amend the law to increase inspection penalties.

In response to questions about comparative analyses of regional products, such as Coca Cola or chocolate, he mentioned their focus is on comparing essential food items that are consumed daily and that are critical for public health.

The “Limited Prices” initiative was relaunched on September 6th and is set to continue until January 31st. Recently, margins for 67 food and hygiene items have been limited in both wholesale and retail settings. Additionally, a measure is in place to cap margins on six staple food items: sunflower oil, granulated sugar, flour types 400 and 500, table salt, and packaged cow’s milk.

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