North Macedonia union minimum basket rises to 69,432 denars

The Union of Trade Unions of Macedonia (SSM) reported that the union minimum basket for September 2026 reached 69,432 denars, an increase of 757 denars compared to August. For a four-member family, food and beverages alone account for 25,259 denars, representing 36.4 percent of the total minimum basket.

When factoring in the cost of renting a 60-square-meter apartment, the monthly minimum expenditure rises to 84,807 denars. This reflects a significant increase over the past two years; in September 2024, the required budget for a family in similar rental conditions was 76,681 denars.

LSDM leader Venko Filipçe criticized the current government's economic management, stating that rising costs have made living in North Macedonia nearly impossible. He noted that the minimum basket has increased by 4,355 denars in just one year compared to September 2025.