Pellet prices for heating in North Macedonia have seen a significant increase this season, rising by approximately 140 denars depending on quality and location. For instance, a 15-kilogram package that cost 199 denars last year is now being sold for up to 340 denars.
This price surge occurs as government institutions have been encouraging citizens to switch from polluting heating methods to more ecological alternatives like pellets. However, the State Inspectorate of the Market stated that they have not received formal complaints regarding these price hikes and noted that prices are formed freely in the market based on margins, quality, and producers.
The Commission for Protection of Competition clarified that simultaneous price increases among different market participants do not, by themselves, constitute proof of illegal price coordination or competition violations. They noted that investigations into potential abuse of dominant positions would require specific evidence of such behavior.
Entities
Commission for Protection of Competition · Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning · State Inspectorate of the Market