Skopje, 27 February 2026 (MIA) - The Economic-Social Council (ESC) will hold a session on Monday, Minister of Economy and Labor Besar Durmishi told MIA, adding that the average consumer basket drafted by the Government would be on its agenda.

"The average consumer basket was on the ESC agenda the last time, but we still haven't received proposals, remarks, suggestions from employers and trade unions. I will put it on the agenda again at Monday's session. Once finalized, it will be promoted before the public, based on real data from relevant institutions. We will not have a consumer basket compiled by a professor or people who are not relevant. People should know the real monthly amount a family of four needs," said Minister Durmishi.

He said the Government has referred to the minimal consumer basket compiled by trade unions on numerous occasions.

"For example, they release data ten days before the end of the month, take into account the highest prices of food products, and also calculate rent costs. As per the 2021 Census, 90 percent of our population live in their own homes," noted Durmishi.

On the trade unions' demand for an increase of the minimum wage, he reiterated that the Government would support any solution agreed by employers and unions.

MIA file photo