Montenegro to raise wages from January

_{Photo: Boris Pejović}

The government of Montenegro has approved the new “Euro Model” economic program, under which from January of next year the net minimum wage will be 1,000 euros for employees with primary education or less, 1,250 euros for those with secondary education and 1,400 euros for employees with higher education.

The program is expected to cover over 250,000 employees in the public and private sectors.

According to Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, wages above the minimum will also rise, while an additional increase could be implemented if social partners agree that the coefficient value increase applies equally in the public and private sectors.

From 2027, pensions will be harmonized four times a year, while the average pension is expected to exceed 600 euros and the minimum pension 500 euros.

In addition, every pensioner will receive an extra 100 euros in December this year for winter expenses.

Spajić said the reform will be financed through increased consumption and employment, fighting the informal economy, budgetary discipline and other fiscal measures.

According to him, the program aims to raise the standard of living and create conditions for citizens living abroad to return to Montenegro.

The Government’s decision on the “Euro Model” will be sent to the Parliament of Montenegro for review.