Inflation in Montenegro has been experiencing rapid growth, reaching nearly four percent over the past year, as reported by Monstat. This rise challenges greenhouse growers, especially during the tourist season when demand surges.
The "Limited Prices" initiative has managed some control; however, recent months have seen escalating costs in services, food, and beverages. As fruit prices climb, they reflect broader inflation trends. Peaches and apricots reach six euros per kilogram, cherries 12 euros, grapes ten euros, and pears four euros. Strawberries begin at five euros.
Economic analysts attribute this escalation to increased tourist demand, suggesting merchants are capitalizing on opportunities. Concerns mount over potential autumn price spirals, which could push inflation beyond usual levels by 2024. Experts from the EU and Eurostat share these warnings.
Beyond agricultural products, inflation impacts health services, medical costs, restaurants, cafes, and tourism. Rent prices and water costs have risen, as have alcohol and tobacco. Food and beverage prices, key concerns for growers, have increased by four percent.
Some stability exists in energy prices, primarily electricity; however, price hikes are anticipated. Over the past two years, coffee production has encountered challenges like climate change and speculative stock market activities, driving its price up by 30 percent. A cup now costs between €1.60 and €2.00, up from €1.40.
Despite the overall trend, fuel costs have decreased by ten percent. The government continues the "Limited Prices" program, though Television Vijesti has not received comments from the Ministry of Economic Development regarding its effectiveness.
Source: Vijesti