Skopje, 14 April 2026 (MIA) - The Ministry of Economy and Labour announces that, in cooperation with the State Market Inspectorate, it has prepared a comparative analysis of the prices of basic food and non-food products, which shows a minimal increase in retail prices from February 1 to April 1 this year, while part of the pressure from higher procurement prices was absorbed by traders.

As stated, the comparative analysis of price movements of basic food and non-food products was conducted in accordance with the conclusion adopted at the 162nd session of the Government of the Republic of North Macedonia.

The analysis includes the prices of 55 most frequently sold products monitored in four retail chains with varying price positioning, over the period from February 1 to April 1, 2026.

“According to the results, in the observed period a slight increase of 0.43% in retail prices was recorded, while purchase prices saw a somewhat higher rise of 1.01%. Meanwhile, the average gross profit margin of retailers fell from 16.28% to 15.80%, suggesting that part of the pressure from higher procurement costs was absorbed by traders to preserve price stability for consumers,” The Ministry of Economy and Labour said.

Regarding individual categories, it is further noted that basic food products recorded a slight increase of 0.45%, with the highest rises observed in sour milk, cheese, eggs, and oil. Non-alcoholic beverages recorded a decrease of 1.01%, while fruit and vegetables saw a decline of 0.86%, despite increases in tomatoes and onions. Basic hygiene products recorded an increase of 1.42%.

The Ministry assesses that price movements in the analyzed period are moderate and under control, partly due to the reduction in trade margins.

The Ministry of Economy and Labour will continue to actively monitor market conditions and, if necessary, will propose appropriate measures to stabilize prices.

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