18th March 2026, Skopje - Minister of Finance, Gordana Dimitrieska-Kochoska, held a meeting today with representatives from the International Monetary Fund, presenting the latest macroeconomic performance, the fiscal policies and the projections for the coming period.
At the meeting, attended by the IMF Mission Chief, Nick Gigineishvili, and the Regional Resident Representative, Sebastian Sosa, the 3.5% growth of the Macedonian economy in 2025 was presented, alongside a pick-up in the economic activity throughout the year and a 3.8% growth in the last quarter. Growth was driven by the domestic demand, especially private and public consumption, along with the positive contribution from the net exports, while investments maintained a strong momentum over the course the year.
Regarding the price trends, data for the January-February period showed a moderation in inflation, indicating a downward shift. However, the recent developments in the Middle East and the rise in oil prices pose a major challenge to the global economy.
Positive trends are also evident in the labour market, with unemployment dropping and wages increasing.
The discussions focused on fiscal projections and assumptions, envisaging a gradual fiscal consolidation, strengthened public finance management and sustained high levels of capital investments as key drivers of the economic growth. The budget deficit is projected to decrease in the coming period to ensure the long-term sustainability of public debt.
As emphasized, external environment is continuously monitored and analyzed, enabling the government to respond effectively with appropriate measures.
“Our priority is to maintain fiscal stability through gradual consolidation and disciplined public finance management, while also fostering the economic activity with a strong investment cycle and structural reforms”, the Minister Gordana Dimitrieska-Kochoska emphasized.
The counterparts commended the commitment to macroeconomic stability and the reform process, stressing that these policies are essential for building trust and fostering long-term economic growth. IMF representatives also acknowledged the consistency in achieving the 4% budget deficit target for 2025, affirming that the fiscal policies are on the right track.
