January 16, 2025, Skopje – The Economic Chamber of North-West Macedonia organized an Open Day between its member businesses and government representatives, attended by First Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Izet Mexhiti and the Director of the Agency for Foreign Investments and Export Promotion, Mr. Refik Xhemaili.
The purpose of this open day was to openly discuss the challenges faced by companies in our country, provide suggestions, and create measures and opportunities for the rapid development of businesses and the economy.

In his remarks, the President of the Economic Chamber of North-West Macedonia, Mr. Mendi Qyra, emphasized the importance of a sustainable strategic partnership between the Government and the business sector for the development of a sustainable and competitive economy.
“Therefore, it is essential for the Government to engage in creating mechanisms that strengthen this cooperation, including regular consultations with Economic Chambers and involving the private sector in shaping macroeconomic policies,” said Mr. Mendi Qyra.
He added that another crucial element for economic development in our country is increasing investments.
“ECNWM has been measuring its membership’s investments for the past 10 years. Our data shows that investments by the TOP 100 member companies of ECNWM have exceeded 600 million euros over the last 5 years alone. In 2024, these same companies made impressive investments totaling 95.6 million euros. All this speaks to the significant role manufacturers play in increasing Gross Domestic Product (GDP), adding value to the national economy,” declared Mr. Mendi Qyra.
He highlighted that supporting manufacturers can help reduce the trade deficit by replacing imported products with domestic ones and also increase exports. He also emphasized that the Law on Financial Support for Investments has a significant impact on strengthening companies, with ECNWM acting as a bridge between companies and various governmental and international grants.

First Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Izet Mexhiti stated that the Government maintains continuous communication with ECNWM and the business sector. He emphasized that they have implemented a series of measures to create a favorable environment for business development and investment attraction.
“We are directly involved in financing businesses, particularly in expanding their current capacities with a 250-million-euro credit line we have secured from Hungary, which offers the best conditions in the region. Application is possible for every entity without any discrimination”, stated First Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Izet Mexhiti.
He added that the start of construction works on Corridor 8 is a good opportunity for all businesses in the Pollog region and beyond. Fiscal policy has been improved to offer incentives to businesses.

Director of the Agency for Foreign Investments and Export Promotion, Mr. Refik Xhemaili, presented the latest data on companies applying for investment grants.
Before ECNWM members and other businesses, Mr. Xhemaili provided a presentation aimed at informing businesses about opportunities and conditions for applying for funds to further develop their businesses.

Through open discussion, ECNWM members had the opportunity to ask questions about the presented measures, clarify their doubts about the Law, and explore application possibilities, along with all other relevant issues in the interest of businesses.

This event organized by ECNWM is one of the activities providing the opportunity to express opinions and to discuss directly with the Government and its representatives, while also offering information on financial access. The Chamber now, with expanded capacities, assists companies in obtaining or securing the same.