Montenegro's Crypto Ambitions Put to the Test Amid Regulatory Hurdles
Montenegro's bid to become Europe's crypto hub is gaining momentum. The country has been actively courting crypto companies since launching its Blockchain Directorate in December 2020, which aimed to cultivate a 'crypto paradise' reputation.
The most significant step taken so far was the amendment of Montenegro's anti-money laundering law in February 2025, creating a registration framework for crypto-asset service providers. This system covers eight categories of crypto services and is overseen by the Capital Market Authority.
Prime Minister Milojko Spajić announced in September 2025 that draft virtual asset legislation was under public consultation, with the goal of aligning Montenegro's rules with the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation (MiCA) sometime in 2026.
However, experts have pointed out that the current framework may not be enough to attract larger operators. Companies require clear guidelines on custody, market conduct, and dispute resolution, which are currently lacking in Montenegro's regulations.