Strengthening Plant Health in Montenegro: A New Era of Protection

Plants are among the most important natural resources of Montenegro. The climatic and geographic diversity of the country leads to a high diversity of natural flora, comprising about 8000 species of vascular plants on a relatively small national territory. Forests cover 60 % of the county. Agriculture and forestry in Montenegro are also diversified, adapted to conditions from typical Mediterranean climate to cold-summer and wet climate in high mountains. In 2023, the value added of agriculture, forestry and fishing was 5.6 % of GDP.

Plant health plays a vital role in safeguarding food chain safety, protecting natural resources, and promoting sustainable development. In Montenegro, this has become a strategic priority as the country is progressively aligning with the EU acquis. Alien plant pests — such as invasive insects and plant diseases — pose significant economic, social, and environmental threats and mitigating measures do not sufficiently address the rising challenges posed by increased transboundary trade and climate change.

To address these challenges, also with the help of the Knowledge for Reform Action in the Western Balkans Programme (K4R), Montenegro is strengthening its plant health system to align with the EU’s latest plant health regime. This transformation will bolster competitiveness in agriculture, forestry, and environmental sectors, while also supporting local businesses and creating job opportunities.

A New Legal Framework for Plant Health

The cornerstone of this shift is the new draft Law on Plant Health Protection. It will be fully aligned with the EU’s modernized plant health and official control regulations. Its implementation is expected to help Montenegro close Chapter 12 of its EU accession negotiations, but its benefits extend beyond that. By adopting EU standards, Montenegro strengthens its position in the EU Single Market, opening new opportunities for trade and export growth.

UNOPS Expert during a technical support mission with representatives from the Directorate for Food Safety, Veterinary and Phytosanitary Affairs of Montenegro

Two technical support missions were organised by the K4R Programme in 2024 to assist the development of the new law. Between June and August, a UNOPS advisor cooperated with representatives from the Montenegrin Directorate for Food Safety, Veterinary and Phytosanitary Affairs, reviewing the draft Law on Plant Health Protection and working on amendments in line with the EU acquis.

The new law reflects a modern approach to plant health, treating it as an activity of public interest. Its primary goal is to prevent the introduction, establishment, and spread of harmful alien, quarantine, and regulated pests and diseases. To achieve this, the draft law emphasizes the importance of early detection and swift containment of new outbreaks. It also establishes a regulatory framework for the import, export, and movement of plants and plant products, introducing measures such as plant passports and phytosanitary certificates. Moreover, the new law will clearly define the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders in the plant health system, including producers, traders, government authorities, and citizens, ensuring a coordinated and comprehensive approach to plant health protection.

Engaging Stakeholders in Plant Health

One important aspect that the new draft law emphasizes is the shared responsibility for plant health. While agricultural producers and operators are key stakeholders, it also recognizes the role of the wider public. Farmers, traders, and business operators involved in planting, breeding, storage, and processing must comply with the new requirements. Non-professionals and citizens also have a role to play, as awareness and early reporting of plant health issues are crucial for effective containment and eradication.

Looking Ahead

Montenegro’s new Law on Plant Health Protection would represent a landmark shift in how the country addresses plant health risks. By modernizing its legal framework, the country not only fulfills EU accession requirements but also strengthens the competitiveness of its domestic agriculture, forestry, and environmental sectors.