North Macedonia to conduct first agricultural census in 20 years

North Macedonia is set to conduct an agricultural census next year, marking the first such operation since 2007. The census will include agricultural families, companies, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs primarily engaged in agricultural production.

Experts emphasize that the operation must be transparent to ensure reliable data. The agricultural sector contributes nearly 6% to the national GDP. While the value of certain sectors like grain production saw a valuation of 106 million euros in 2024, other areas like industrial, fodder, and garden crops have seen increases due to rising prices and expanded cultivation areas.

Agronomist and farmer Risto Velkov noted that the census is vital for creating a complete picture of the sector, including livestock, profits, and arable land. He highlighted the need for such data to develop sustainable measures, noting that a national pedological analysis—a professional examination of soil to determine optimal crop placement—has not yet been conducted.