Skopje, 1 August 2023 (MIA) - This is a year of small producers. All programmes and policies were developed to support small producers, those who invest lots of effort and love in keeping with the tradition and the legacy of past generations. Their production capacity maybe small but their plans are big. They know how, they are motivated, what they need is state support to make progress and increase production, said Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy Ljupcho Nikolovski at the ceremony for presentation of the agreements on financial support of small distilleries on Tuesday.

Twelve distilleries will receive grants in the amount of Mden 300,000 (EUR 5,000) to procure equipment for modernization of the production process. The grant funds are allocated from the Ministry budget, through the programme for funding of micro-agriculture producers of wine and alcoholic beverages.

"The largest benefit of this grant agreement is that distilleries will receive an advance payment of funds, right after the signing of the agreement. They are tasked with purchasing the equipment and/or hire a liquor expert within 45 days. In this way, we are helping them to procure equipment without taking a loan and paying interests. On the contrary, we are supporting their growth and rising production, making them more competitive, while contributing to higher tax contributions in the national budget," said Nikolovski.

He added that 32 distilleries are registered in the Customs Administration as of June 2023.

"Prior to the launch of the state support in 2019, there were 30 small family wineries and now there are 165, writing a new history in the wine sector. I expect to see the same with small distilleries, especially since this area is known for the production of wine and rakija (brandy), and it is time to promote them globally," said Nikolovski.

Eighteen distilleries applied at the public call, of which 12 have received financial support.

"These funds will help us continue with the development of our traditional production at a slightly higher level, through better equipment, higher quality and more products. Back in 2019, we were only two and now there are 12. We will continue to develop and support those who seek assistance through the association of Macedonian distilleries," said one of the grant recipients, Jorde Jovanov.

Photo: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy