PM Marković, Managing Directors: Law on reprogramming of tax debt provides over EUR 10 million in budget revenues

Podgorica, Montenegro (129 July 2017) -- The collection of budget revenues is excellent, the revenues are higher than planned for this and the last year, as a result of the dedicated work of the competent services in this field, but also of new legal solutions, Prime Minister of Montenegro Duško Marković and Director of Customs Administration Vladan Joković, Director of Tax Administration Miomir M. Mugoša and Director of the Directorate of Inspection Affairs Alija Košuta concluded at today's meeting.

At the regular monthly meeting of the representatives of the Government and directors of the three administrations, the fact that around EUR 10.2 million were paid through the application of the Law on reprogramming of tax debt was especially noted and praised. The officials noted that the majority fulfilled their obligations undertaken through this programme, but also stressed that all those who violate the agreed obligations will be blocked.

Another important result is that, after inspection supervision, almost 5,000 people are provided with employers' application for pension and health insurance. This result was assessed as positive, but the need for further reduction of the informal workforce was noted.

Prime Minister Marković praised the management and employees of the three administrations, assessing that they are working in a responsible and committed manner, within the framework of legal possibilities. The need for further improvement of the legislative framework was reiterated, but it was also agreed to provide stronger coordination with police, prosecutors and courts. Also, the need for closer cooperation with local authorities, primarily the communal police, was emphasised.

The officials jointly concluded that there is a space for achieving better results for which a stronger account with the informal economy is very important, as well as finding answers to systemic problems. Prime Minister Marković stressed the importance of more efficient and responsible work of the employees throughout the public administration, especially in the high managerial staff in the ministries.

Speaking about local governments, the meeting noted their insufficient tax discipline and talked about models that would encourage them to better fulfill their obligations to the state.