Skopje, 6 February 2025 (MIA) – The Ministry of Economy on February 7 or February 10 will reveal the measures the government is going to take as regards the rising prices of groceries, which has prompted the citizens to boycott supermarket chains.

A meeting with officials of trade unions, the organization of consumers, the State Statistical Office, the ministries of finances and agriculture will take place next Monday involving the new methodology for calculating the consumer basket, Economy Minister Besar Durmishi said Thursday.  

“Boycotting of shops is a legitimate thing, I understand why it is being organized because certain entities are trying to generate huge profits off of citizens’ back. This will not be tolerated. We’ll inform you what we are going to do next, we are prepared to take all measures at a disposal so as to prevent such unpleasant situations from happening,” Durmishi told a press briefing. 

The State Market Inspectorate, he said, by the end of this week should complete six-month inspections that involve distributors, suppliers, producers and retailers. 

“The whole process is being inspected, the margin established by retailers for a six-month period is looked into. Based on this report from the inspectorate, the government will take adequate measures,” said the Minister. 

Asked about minimum wage, Durmishi said the government backs the methodology agreed by and signed by two parties – trade unions and employers.

“If trade unions and employers agree on a new methodology or new conditions, we are here to support them,” concluded Minister Durmishi. 

MIA file photo/video: MIA