Mickoski: More Than 15 Billion Denars in Subsidies Paid to Farmers Over Two Years

Speaking to reporters, Prime Minister of the Republic of North Macedonia Hristijan Mickoski responded to opposition accusations over a lack of results in the agricultural sector. He said the indicators point to significant progress and the gradual overcoming of the difficult situation inherited from previous governments.

According to Mickoski, the previous government had left unpaid wages at the “Water Supply” company, deteriorated reservoirs, serious difficulties in supplying farmers with water, outstanding obligations to farmers, and delays in direct payments for 2020–2021. He said the settlement of these obligations is nearing completion, while the remaining payments to farmers and livestock breeders will also be made through the budget revision.

The head of government announced that the application cycle for 2026 subsidies has already begun. He stressed that more than 15 billion denars in direct subsidies have been distributed to farmers over the past two years.

Mickoski also stated that agricultural production has increased, while the trade deficit in the import and export of agricultural products has narrowed.

In his assessment, these results were achieved despite what he described as a “catastrophe inherited” from the previous SDSM and DUI government, as well as from the Left party, which is currently part of the opposition coalition.

He added that the opposition would continue to obstruct the government’s work, but emphasized that the executive would remain focused on its established priorities and policies.