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SDSM minimum wage and agricultural subsidy proposals

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2026-10-26 09:04 UTC → 2026-10-26 09:08 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) has proposed increasing the national minimum wage to 36,960 denars (approximately 600 euros) to combat rising living costs. SDSM President Venko Filipce has argued that the current wage of 26,000 denars covers only 31% to 37% of total living expenses. To support the private sector, Filipce suggested subsidizing social security contributions. In addition to wage reforms, SDSM has submitted draft laws for direct agricultural assistance, including subsidies for grape, pepper, wheat, livestock, and rice producers. Political tensions have escalated as SDSM members criticize Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski’s government, accusing it of prioritizing luxury spending and state celebrations over worker welfare. Mickoski has countered by blaming previous administrations for current economic struggles. Meanwhile, the Union of Trade Unions of Macedonia (SSM) reported that the union minimum basket reached 69,432 denars in September 2026, rising to 84,807 denars when including rent for a 60-square-meter apartment. In October 2026, the North Macedonian Assembly voted to increase the minimum wage to 600 euros following an SDSM proposal. SDSM spokesperson Bogdanka Kuzeska noted that only SDSM and its coalition members supported the measure, criticizing the Levica party for its absence and the opposition parties, including VMRO-DPMNE, ZNAM, and VLN, for not voting in favor. By late October 2026, SDSM intensified its criticism of the economic crisis, alleging that the cost of living has risen by 4,000 denars since the start of the year. The party reported that the October union minimum basket exceeds 70,000 denars, approaching 90,000 denars when rent is included. SDSM further criticized the new budget rebalance, claiming it fails to provide for a 600-euro minimum wage or farmer assistance, instead focusing on debt and interest obligations. The party also warned of potential increases in electricity and heating costs starting in January.

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