Skopje, 1 April 2026 (MIA) - We were the only country to reduce fuel prices last week, the only one in the region and maybe the best in Europe regarding prices of oil and oil derivatives. Citizens should be calm since quantities are sufficient. We are monitoring the situation and we will respond accordingly, said Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski on Wednesday.

"The situation is under control, unlike some past times when panic, incompetence, crime and corruption were prevalent," PM Mickoski told reporters.

He said unleaded fuel in the country ranged between EUR 1.33-1.39 per liter with diesel around EUR 1.5, unlike Albania and Greece, where it exceeds EUR 2, Serbia (EUR 1.8-2), Germany (up to EUR 3) and similarly in other European countries.

"In the first month of the biggest oil crisis after the one in the 1970s, the country is reflecting stability and security, having a plan to cope with these challenges," noted Mickoski.

The PM said there is no reason to fear a lack of energy resources or a possibility to declare a state of crisis in the electricity or oil sectors.

"We cannot not know what will happen in two, three or five months from now. We can only assume, collect information, analyse and take decisions. The challenges will be there, this does not depend on us but other global factors. Nevertheless, the Government will respond solely in the citizens' interest," said Mickoski.

He said the Government would extend the VAT cuts for fuels if prices went up.

"If prices of unleaded fuels and diesel continue to rise, we will absolutely extend it. If it escalates, there are other tools at disposal, such as the excise tax," added Mickoski.

The PM said Power Plants of North Macedonia (ESM) has 3,200 tonnes of mazut on disposal if needed.

"Reservoirs are about 40-percent full, which is at least double compared to previous years. The irrigation season is now starting and we have sufficient quantities for electricity production and for irrigation by farmers. ESM is even selling electricity in certain periods of the day, making EUR 100,000-150,000 on a daily basis. The electricity price for citizens will not go up, so the situation is completely under control. There will be challenges but the Government is here to respond actively not reactively," said Mickoski.

Photo: MIA