North Macedonia market inspectorate faces staffing and digital gaps

An audit of the State Market Inspectorate in North Macedonia has revealed significant operational challenges, including a critical staffing shortage and inadequate digitalization. In 2024, the inspectorate conducted 28,263 inspections using only 148 inspectors, representing just 47% of the 313 authorized positions.

The State Audit Office expressed an unfavorable opinion regarding the accuracy of the inspectorate's 2024 financial reports and a reserved opinion on its compliance with legal regulations. Key issues identified include the incomplete implementation of the ‘E-inspector’ application, the lack of a unified electronic database for risk assessment, and a shortage of leadership, with five departments currently lacking heads.

Furthermore, the audit highlighted concerns regarding the sustainability of product controls following the conclusion of project-based funding. Between 2022 and 2025, 40 products were withdrawn from the market based on laboratory testing.