North Macedonia labor market faces record job vacancies and high unemployment

North Macedonia is experiencing a significant labor market paradox, characterized by a record number of unfilled positions alongside a high number of active job seekers. According to data from the State Statistical Office, 10,697 job vacancies were recorded in the second quarter of 2026, representing a vacancy rate of 2.17 percent.

The highest demand for workers is found in the service and sales sectors, with 2,980 vacancies. Specifically, the accommodation and food service sector reported the highest vacancy rate at 6.23 percent. In contrast, the electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply sector saw the lowest rate at 0.38 percent.

Despite these vacancies, the Employment Agency recorded 88,541 active job seekers in June. This discrepancy suggests that the issue extends beyond a simple shortage of labor, pointing toward a mismatch between the qualifications of the unemployed and the specific needs of employers. Factors such as regional distribution, wage levels, working conditions, and the emigration of the working-age population are also cited as contributing elements to this imbalance.