Montenegro is significantly behind schedule in forming mandatory fuel reserves, a key requirement in its EU accession talks. Although over €8m has been collected from fuel levies (expected to reach €11m by year-end), the public procurement for Eurodiesel has not started due to pending government approval. This delay risks energy security and could block progress on the EU energy chapter.
The Hydrocarbons Administration must purchase 50% of the reserves, with major importers responsible for the remaining 50%. Two importers have fulfilled their obligations; the third is expected to comply by September. For 2025, the plan is to purchase 14,000–17,000 tons of Eurodiesel, funded by fuel fees and an expected €3m from the EU, which has not arrived yet.
The administration needs government consent to approve the €11m procurement budget and complete the process by year-end. Montenegro’s total mandatory reserves should reach around 112,000 tons, with officials stressing the need to maximise purchases in 2025.
