Skopje, 4 September 2024 (MIA) - Construction of a plant for lithium-ion batteries of German company BMZ Group was launched in the technological-industrial development zone Skopje on Wednesday. The investment amounts to EUR 65 million, the facility is expected to be completed in May 2025, exports in the first three years are set to reach at least EUR 60 million, while opening up to 1,000 new jobs.

BMZ Macedonia general director Jelica Ivanovska said the company products are mostly distributed in Germany and Poland but other European countries as well.

"We already have production here. We are currently working in a 'brownfield' facility, i.e. an already existing building in the premises of the former 'Rade Konchar' factory, with 110 employees in all sectors, but we need a lot more space. This will be a state-of-the-art plant with 40 production lines, whereas the number of employees will range between 770 and 1,000," said Ivanovska.

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said the Government would continue to support such projects.

"Exports will reach EUR 35-40 million in the initial period, with a maximum of EUR 60 million in the first three years and up to EUR 130 million later. This will have a positive impact on the Macedonian economy," said PM Mickoski.

He added there are ongoing talks with a couple of foreign investors already present in the country.

"We are also in the final stages of negotiations over a new investment coming from a powerful EU member-state. I am certain that the process will finish by the year-end and add value to the country's GDP," noted Mickoski.

Photo: MIA