Montenegro stands out as a frontrunner in the region regarding IPARD II allocation, having utilized nearly 90 percent of the available funds from this program, according to Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management Vladimir Joković.

Joković further explained that IPARD II has provided Montenegrin agriculture with 39 million euros in support from the European Union (EU) through various measures and initiatives.

“Due to successful implementation, by the year’s end, agricultural producers and processors in Montenegro are expected to utilize nearly 90 percent of the available European funds, amounting to approximately 35 million euros,” Joković stated at a press conference held in Villa Gorica to mark the conclusion of IPARD II.

This year, the launch of four public calls under the new IPARD III program has generated significant interest, with the ministry already receiving over 900 applications from prospective beneficiaries.

Minister of Finance, Novica Vukovic, indicated that the RESOR reported, as part of the coordination with EU funds, on the support provided to the Ministry of Agriculture in the execution of key programs that significantly influence agricultural and rural development.

“Together, we have effectively engaged with the EU to ensure that farmers receive the assistance they need for modernization and further development,” Vukovic remarked.

In financing Montenegrin applicants, approximately 90 percent of the funds available—about 34.7 million out of a total of two million—have been allocated, although there remains a notable risk of losing and not utilizing the previous year’s funds, which amounted to 11 million euros.

“We have made considerable progress during this crucial phase of program implementation, thanks to collaboration among institutions through dedicated teamwork. We have also managed to address all the challenges from the prior period and nearly maximize the utilization of the funds available to the state,” Vukovic added.

He emphasized that this achievement is not merely about numbers but represents a concerted effort to benefit Montenegrin farmers and foster the development of Montenegro’s agricultural sector, which will in turn positively impact various other production sectors.