Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management will make every effort to resolve, as quickly as possible, the problems facing watermelon producers, primarily those from the Malesija region, caused by difficulties in marketing this year’s crop.

The Ministry said in a press release that it had asked producers to submit a list containing information on potential market surpluses and available quantities so that appropriate measures could be taken to address the issue.

“The list is expected to be submitted by the end of today’s working day. Based on the information received, the Ministry will assess the actual situation and, in accordance with the legal framework, undertake activities to resolve the problem as soon as possible,” the press release reads.

According to the Ministry, they became aware of the issue through media reports, after which they established contact with representatives of the producers and their association.

"Based on the information currently available, this is a market disruption caused by the simultaneous ripening of large quantities of watermelons and the saturation of regional markets to which Montenegrin producers had exported surplus production in previous years. Changing climate conditions and the expansion of areas suitable for watermelon cultivation have led to increased production across a larger number of countries in the region, further limiting export opportunities precisely during the peak supply period,” the Ministry explained.

The Ministry recalled that it has a mediating role and is prepared to work with producers, retail chains, distributors, the tourism sector and potential exporters to help identify additional sales channels for domestically grown watermelons.