North Macedonia reports 2.3% inflation and major infrastructure expansion

North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski has reported several key economic and infrastructure developments. He stated that inflation in July fell to 2.3%, placing the country second in the region for the lowest inflation rate. Mickoski noted that this is significantly lower than the European Union average of approximately 2.9% to 3%, and contrasted it with the double-digit inflation seen in 2022.

Regarding infrastructure, Mickoski announced an intensive construction period involving six highway sections, including the Blace–Skopje route, which is expected to begin construction around August 26. He also highlighted ongoing projects such as the Kikacha–Kichevo highway and sewage infrastructure in Idrizovo. The Prime Minister emphasized that these projects utilize domestic labor and serve as indicators of increased economic activity.

In the agricultural sector, Mickoski confirmed that a deal has been reached regarding pepper procurement, resolving previous tensions with producers. While the government maintains it supports higher prices for farmers, opposition parties like LSDM have criticized the administration, arguing that the reported inflation drop does not reflect the rising cost of living for citizens and that the government is focusing more on propaganda than real economic results.