SDSM criticizes North Macedonian government over agricultural crisis

The Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) has criticized the government's handling of the agricultural sector following new data from the State Statistical Office. In August, agricultural production costs rose by 6.8 percent, while producer prices fell by 2.2 percent.

Specific cost increases included fuel and energy at 15.8 percent, machinery at 13.4 percent, and transport equipment at 19.6 percent. Conversely, producer prices for vegetables dropped by 6.4 percent, fruits and grapes by 7.2 percent, and animal products by 7.7 percent.

SDSM leadership, including Venko Filipçe, accused Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski of prioritizing data centers and antimony over food security. The opposition claims that a reduction of approximately 40 million euros in subsidies, the removal of advance payments, and delays in green fuel distribution are squeezing farmers. They are calling for regular subsidies, timely assistance for small-scale producers, and fair purchasing prices to prevent a crisis in upcoming harvests.