Skopje, 8 August 2025 (MIA) - Minister of Economy and Labour, Besar Durmishi, officially presented on Friday the "school basket" measure, introduced by the Government on Thursday. This measure, set to apply from August 15 to September 15, 2025, provides for a minimum 10% reduction in wholesale prices and a 15% reduction in retail prices of school supplies.

Speking at a press conference, Durmishi said that the measure applies to stores selling school supplies, including bookstores, supermarkets, and sports shop, and includes a broad range of items such as notebooks, backpacks, pencils, crayons, markers, calculators, scissors, glue, folders, and other essentials.

Durmishi noted that every product covered by the measure will have a clear label reading “Less costs, more for you.” In addition, all stores will display posters containing details about the measure, ensuring full transparency for consumers.

The prices will be compared with the reference price as of June 1, 2025, or with the purchase documents for more recently introduced products. This means that the reduction is real, verifiable, and fair – for both consumers and retailers, he added.

“We believe that education should be equally accessible to all, regardless of family income. That is why, together with the Government, we are taking measures to ensure that every child starts the school year under equal conditions, and that parents feel concrete relief,” Durmishi said.

According to him, the basket is aimed at protecting the family budget ahead of the new school year.

“This measure is part of the Government’s broader systemic approach to intervene where costs are highest and needs are greatest. Last year’s ‘school basket’ was very successful as savings per student ranged from Mden 750 to 2,000. Every family saving meant more opportunities for children and less pressure on parents,” Durmishi said.

Durmishi also noted that the goal remains the same – to give all students an equal and dignified start to the school year, free of financial barriers.

“We continue to monitor the situation on the ground, carry out analyses, and discuss new measures, always guided by the interests of the citizens. Education should begin with a smile, and we are here to help make that truly happen,” he said.

Photo: MIA