North Macedonia promoted as regional manufacturing hub at Baku forum

North Macedonian Minister of Economy and Labor, Besar Durmishi, presented the country as a strategic manufacturing and export platform during the Second Azerbaijan International Investment Forum (AIIF 2026) in Baku.

Addressing global economic and geopolitical uncertainty, Durmishi emphasized that North Macedonia is driving growth through structural reforms, energy security, and deeper European and regional integration. He urged investors to maintain investment cycles in infrastructure, digitalization, and human capital despite global instability.

Key selling points highlighted include the country's location on Corridors 8 and 10, its developed automotive industry, and access to over 650 million consumers via existing trade agreements. The Minister noted that the North Macedonian economy achieved a 4.3 percent growth rate in the second quarter of 2026, signaling economic resilience.