Skopje, 6 April 2026 (MIA) – Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said Monday, responding to journalists’ questions, that fuel supplies are stable and there is no need for concern, despite increased daily consumption due to pressure at certain border crossings.

“Fuel supplies remain stable and sufficient, with no reason for concern, despite a rise in daily consumption from 1.5 to 2 million liters. We are seeing pressure at certain border crossings and we have extended the measure reducing VAT from 18 to 10 percent, all with the aim of protecting the standard of citizens and businesses,” said Mickoski, responding to journalists’ questions during a visit to the Mother Teresa Clinical Center, where six fully renovated operating rooms were put into use.

He noted that the government’s decision adopted Sunday enables the Energy Regulatory Commission to decrease excise duties by 4 denars per liter for diesel and 2 denars per liter for gasoline.

“Additionally, in talks with OKTA, I personally spoke with the management of Hellenic Petroleum in Athens as well as with OKTA here in Skopje, and we managed to secure an additional one-month period for the three denars per liter for diesel and two denars for unleaded fuel.

“Once these measures take effect, gasoline prices are expected to be lower than current levels, while diesel prices should not increase at certain fuel stations, despite the serious challenges in the country and worldwide,” Mickoski said when asked about the anticipated effects of the excise reductions.

The government’s goal is to remain a source of stability, said Mickoski, stressing that the country now projects strength and support in the region. He added that prices started to decline after Eastern markets opened, but a clearer picture will emerge only after trading closes for the day and the week, which will determine future fuel prices for diesel and unleaded gasoline 95 and 98.

Photo: MIA