The economy of the town has been always based on trade, crafts, agriculture and services. The port of Metković has been closely connected with the development of the town.
In the period between the two wars, it was the main port as far as Vojvodina, and the main port for the importation of specialist goods into the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. The left bank of the Neretva is suitable for lading smaller ships and yachts while the right bank is reserved for merchantmen.
Together with trade and agriculture, catering and tourist services are increasingly important; the town has its own gastronomic specialities based on various types of fish. More and more tourists are interested in taking a “safari drive" in traditional Neretva vessels and there are also many birdwatchers. Building continues apace in Metković.
