Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – Last year’s decline in tourism revenues is not an exception but a trend that will continue this year if nothing changes, said President of Montenegro Jakov Milatovic, emphasizing that it is time to be responsible, not make excuses.

“All indicators confirm that the decrease in tourism revenues last year wasn’t an anomaly, but part of a continuing trend that will persist this year if no action is taken. This is a direct consequence of poor governance and the Government’s complete lack of responsibility. I refuse to stand by. Montenegro must change – immediately, decisively, and fundamentally,” Milatovic said in a press release.

He noted that back in February, he had called on the Government to present a clear and responsible recovery plan for tourism, one of the key pillars of Montenegro’s economy.

“Instead, we are witnessing poor and short-sighted decisions – from non-transparent beach lease agreements to delays in critical infrastructure projects,” he said.

Milatovic also criticized the decision to raise the value-added tax (VAT) on tourism services from 7 percent to 15 percent, calling it a serious mistake.