Dimitrieska-Koçoska: Budget Revision Increases Funding for Capital Projects, Agriculture, Municipalities and Social Protection

The proposed supplementary revision of the 2026 Budget provides additional funds to accelerate capital investment, support agriculture and municipalities, and implement the Government’s development priorities. At the same time, it ensures the uninterrupted fulfillment of obligations arising from the law.

Finance Minister Gordana Dimitrieska-Koçoska presented the supplemented proposal to amend the 2026 Budget to MPs in Parliament. She said the planned measures aim to continue policies designed to maintain economic stability, foster development and ensure the responsible management of public finances.

According to the minister, the document includes both the measures proposed by the Government and the amendments adopted during its review by the relevant parliamentary committee. This further strengthens support for citizens and development-oriented policies.

Dimitrieska-Koçoska said the supplemented proposal for the 2026 Budget revision adjusts budget projections responsibly and in a timely manner to the new economic conditions. According to her, the document also guarantees the funds needed to meet legal obligations incurred in the meantime and to implement development priorities.

She explained that the changes enable the payment of increased salaries in sectors where pay rises have been planned, additional support for agriculture, greater funding for social protection and more resources for municipalities. The minister highlighted additional funding to accelerate the investment cycle and implement infrastructure projects as a key feature of the budget revision.

Although uncertainty in the global economy persists because of geopolitical developments, Dimitrieska-Koçoska emphasized that the Macedonian economy continues to demonstrate stability and resilience.

Gross domestic product is projected to record real growth of 3.5% in 2026. Investment is expected to be the main driver of economic activity, supported by the implementation of major infrastructure projects and capital investment at the central and local levels.

Projections foresee investment growth of 7.2% and an 8.3% increase in the average net salary. Unemployment is expected to fall further to 11%, while the employment rate is projected to reach 47%. Average inflation in 2026 is projected at 4.5%, driven mainly by external price pressures and geopolitical developments.

Particular attention was paid to the execution of capital expenditure. During the January–June period, it reached 19.4 billion denars, 53.5% higher than in the same period last year.