Skopje, 14 April 2026 (MIA) - Our role is not only to control but protect, prevent and show that everyone is equal before the law. Companies that operate legally must be given certainty and predictability. Our role is to provide the conditions in which honest work is an advantage, while unfair competition is eliminated. Crime has no place in the strong institution that we are trying to build. Systemic changes require time but also commitment, said Customs Administration director Boban Nikolovski at the event marking the institution's 34th anniversary on Tuesday.

"The Customs Administration is much more than an administrative mechanism. It is the key line of defense, a place where important decisions are made on a daily basis, decisions that require your integrity, discipline and responsibility," said Nikolovski.

He said that since assuming the post in July 2024, the Customs Administration filed 332 criminal charges against 761 individuals and 254 legal entities, promising a more vehement fight against crime.

"Collection of revenues has increased by the year, which means more funds for new highways, new hospitals, new schools. Instead of ending up in someone's pocket, these funds went into the Budget in order to build the future," said Nikolovski.

The director added that funds from the national budget, EU, the Republic of Korea, and the World Bank have been used for reform projects worth EUR 30 million, ensuring increased competitiveness of the Macedonian economy and accelerated integration in EU's single market.

"These numbers are a proof that our commitment and professionalism yield results, which are visible and measurable," noted Nikolovski.

He promised that "crime will not find its place in the strong institution that we are trying to build," while adding that systemic changes require time but also commitment.

"Our role is not only to control but protect, prevent and show that everyone is equal before the law. Companies that operate legally must be given certainty and predictability. Our role is to provide the conditions in which honest work is an advantage, while unfair competition is eliminated," said Nikolovski.

He extended gratitude to the Government and Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski for the continued support, as well as the embassies of the United States and the United Kingdom, the EU Delegation, the OSCE Mission, chambers, associations and the the business community.

Nikolovski also thanked all customs officers, inspectors, administrative and operational teams for building the institution's integrity, "which in turn builds the citizens' trust in the state and the security of our borders."

Photo: Government