Skopje, 19 June 2025 (MIA) - State Statistical Office data on agriculture note greater inputs and greater outputs, which is positive for farmers who have been paid over Mden 8 billion in subsidies, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said on Thursday. 

"That is absolutely true, and that is what the new report of the State Statistical Office shows. We have a double-digit growth in output, i.e. an increase in prices to buyers, which generally goes for export, and I would say a negligible 1.2-2 percent increased input in costs, in the expenditure side of farmers. And that has been going on for several months now, and it is excellent. That is an excellent parameter. It means more money for investments and more money for farmers," Mickoski said in response to a reporter's question at Thursday's reopening event for the "Macedonian Village" complex.

As regards support provided by the Government to farmers, the PM noted that more than over Mden 8 billion were provided last year, money for the payment of overdue subsidies from 2021.

"Now we need to focus on the current year. So, since 2021, arrears of subsidies of Mden 8.6 billion have been paid, approximately," he noted. 

Mickoski announced that at today's session, the Government will discuss the budget rebalance, pointing out that the rebalance will provide more money for municipalities, higher wages, pensions, as well as more money for healthcare.

"It includes funds for projects that are within the framework of local self-government units, funds for more subsidies, higher wages, pensions, healthcare... But, after, let's say, after the adoption of the Draft Budget in the first reading within the government session, I assume that it will be explained to the media," said Mickoski. 

Photo: MIA archive