Analysis of the traditional arts and craft industry with the aim to improve the sustainable development of tourism in Montenegro

Tourism sector in Montenegro, despite an abundance of crafts, has not recognized the importance of their valorisation. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to examine potential problems and weaknesses of craft sector, to explore artisans ' willingness to participate in sustainable tourism, and to provide solutions fo r entering the industry. The goal is to examine the state of craft sector, but also the attitude towards crafts valorization, to identify obstacles and create recommendations, in order to improve sustainable tourism development in Montenegro. The paper includes secondary and primary research, whereby the secondary research will be based on the data of available bibliographic units, while the primary research will be based on the processing of data collected through a survey, and refers to the analysis of Montenegrin craftsmen and employees in cultural institutions, regarding the current state of artisanal production. The results show a low participation of crafts in tourism, but also great interest fo r changes. The problems that artisans face are recognized, and the results show that there is lack of vision and strategy of development. However, there are great potentials. The research will contribute to the inclusion of small bussineses in tourism and valorisation of neglected cultural treasures, by analyzing the current situation, barriers and providing a solution.