Macedonian PM Mickoski pledges reforms and warns traders over rising margins

Prime Minister Hristian Mickoski said the government will keep pushing reforms and aims to be the regional leader in their implementation. He stressed that Macedonia will pursue constructive steps toward EU accession but will not accept unconditional constitutional changes or any measures that undermine national interests. Mickoski added that the administration remains open to dialogue with the opposition on the pending reconstruction of the government and amendments to the electoral code.

The cabinet also disclosed that an analysis of 600‑700 products showed gross‑profit margins rising by two to five percentage points compared with the same period last year. Mickoski announced a forthcoming meeting with traders and warned that those who have increased margins – for example from 10 % to 12‑15 % – will be warned and urged to reduce prices. He highlighted the latest inflation data, noting a 3.4 % rate in June, the lowest in the region, and pointed to lower inflation in food and non‑alcoholic drinks (2.5 %) and in clothing and footwear (2.1 %).