Montenegro’s Customs Administration announced that from January to May this year, customs revenue collection increased by 8.14% compared to the same period last year. A total of 539.6 million euros was collected, which is 39.17 million euros more than before. But let’s dig deeper into these numbers that sound like everything is perfect.
First, VAT on imports rose by 7.73%, meaning the state collected an additional 25.04 million euros. Planned VAT revenues were exceeded by 7.06 million euros. Excise duties also increased by 7.61%, or 10.18 million euros, while gross excise collection was up by 6.99% or 9.4 million euros. Customs duties amounted to 26.3 million euros, which is 17.27% more than last year, and compared to the revenue plan, it is 14.10% higher.
At first glance, it looks like the Customs Administration did a great job. But is this really a reason to celebrate? Is the revenue growth a result of more efficient work or just a consequence of rising prices and imports? And what about what citizens and businesses feel? Are these figures just numbers on paper or do they reflect real life?
Also, the Customs Administration imposed fines starting May 1, mostly for failure to issue fiscal receipts, indicating problems with control and law enforcement. Is this a sign that the system still has serious gaps?
In short, while the Customs Administration celebrates revenue growth, citizens and businesses should think about what this means for them. Is this just another indicator that money is being collected but problems remain unsolved? Or is it time to praise those who managed to increase revenues under tough conditions?
If you have thoughts on this or feel like the customs administration is just numbers on paper, feel free to drop a comment. Maybe together we can uncover what’s really going on behind these figures!
