Macedonia receives €1 million World Bank grant for railway reform

The government of North Macedonia signed a grant agreement with the World Bank for €1 million to fund reforms of the state railway company MŽ Transport. Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Aleksandar Nikoloski and World Bank Macedonia director Carol Mejevan announced the funding will support restructuring of MŽ Transport, the purchase of new rolling stock and at least five electric locomotives, and further development of cargo and passenger services.

Nikoloski said the reforms have already led to a measurable rise in cargo volumes and passenger numbers and that legal steps have prevented the closure of MŽ Transport. He noted that the first urban‑rail line is in its final stage and that tenders for the second and third lines are expected this year, with completion aimed for late 2027 or early 2028. Ongoing projects include the railway link with Bulgaria, the western wing of Corridor 8 and preparations for the fast‑rail Corridor 10.

The World Bank grant is part of a broader strategy to modernise the railway sector, improve its financial stability and position it as a core component of the national economy.