North Macedonia PM on inflation measures

We are closely monitoring the situation and, of course, we are considering measures that will be in the interest of citizens, Prime Minister of North Macedonia Hristijan Mickoski told reporters when asked whether new targeted economic measures will be adopted, given the inflation rate.

He explained that average inflation stood below 4.5 percent in the first four months, adding that it is “one of the lowest, if not the lowest in the region,” CE Report quotes MIA.

“According to the Government’s analysis, the main drivers of May’s annual inflation of 4.7 percent are two sectors, or two types of products. These are transport services, which recorded double-digit growth of over 10 percent, and alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco products, which are close to double-digit increases. I do not intend to introduce measures in these areas, adding that even stricter measures might be necessary, as the goal is to protect citizens’ health. Therefore, in the segment of alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and cigarettes, there is no need for any measures, and we are saying in advance that there will be no measures here,” he underlined.

In relation to transport sector, Mickoski noted that the government is already holding discussions with transporters.

He noted that most of the impact comes from air transport due to expensive kerosene, which is roughly double in price, and said that tax measures could once again be considered.

Mickoski said that first they will monitor developments this month, after which they will adopt targeted economic measures to reduce inflation.

Photo: Facebook/MickoskiHristijan