Skopje, 29 November 2023 (MIA) - A few weeks ago we signed the contracts and the process of opening the first logistics and distribution platform in North Macedonia has already begun. The strategic investment worth EUR 19 million is planned to cover about 30.000 square meters and process about 46.000 tons of fruit and vegetables. This platform is not just a capital construction project, but a symbol of change and a brighter future for the agricultural sector, and the standards that we have to establish, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy Ljupcho Nikolovski said on Wednesday.

The platform will be constructed with funds provided through the Agricultural Modernization Project, financed with a EUR 46 million loan from the World Bank and an EU grant from the pre-accession assistance (IPA) programme in the amount of EUR 4 million. Funds will also be used for the construction of two more purchasing centers in Strumica and in Resen.

"The construction of this platform will provide more security, and connect all farmers in one place, offering them an opportunity to place their domestic Macedonian agricultural products on new markets. It will also offer consumers safe and high-quality products, further strengthening food safety and hygiene, as well as new jobs for people in those towns. It will also help in the formalization of markets and will have a positive impact on the environment," Nikolovski said after visiting the site in Gazi Baba municipality where the logistics and distribution platform will be built.

Its construction will organize and improve the supply of safe fresh food products, offer easier access to the market for local fresh food, as well as logistics and other services for the agri-food sector for the domestic and international market.

"As it progresses through its stages, this platform promises to make agriculture more competitive, sustainable and economically prosperous. The logistics-distribution platform is expected to include the wholesale market, and be used as a logistics area with dry and cold storage capacities. At the same time, it provides opportunities for a better organized export of Macedonian agricultural products," Nikolovski noted.

The agreement signed with the selected consulting partnership is divided into several stages. The first phase focuses on the selection of a suitable location for urban planning, a feasibility study, strategic business plan, impact assessments on the environment and social aspects, as well as a manual that will contain operations for the platform. The second phase involves preparing a master project and finalizing an environmental and social aspects management plan.

"This phase will pave the way for obtaining necessary building permits, ensuring compliance with the national legislation and standards set by the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC). The first phase of the agreement will begin right here in Skopje, in the municipality of Gazi Baba, where the construction of this capital and significant investment is planned," stressed Nikolovski, adding that soon they will sign other agreements for the new centers in Strumica and Resen.

The three important capital projects and investments, he added, will provide security, a better organized and guaranteed placement and market for our domestic and local Macedonian production for our farmers. ssh/sk/

Фото: МИА