Skopje, 9 March 2026 (MIA) - SDSM leader Venko Filipche accused the authorities on Monday of failing to do anything against rising prices due to the war in the Middle East.

"First, we propose that the VAT rate for diesel, unleaded fuel, gas oil, liquefied natural gas and methane reduce from 18 to five percent. Then, a lower excise tax by Mden 4, leading to a drop in fuel prices at gas stations. And finally, zero VAT for basic food products, to soften the possible food price hikes," Filipche told a press conference.

According to him, the Government is doing nothing in relation to the week-long Middle East crisis.

"Global oil prices have been rising for a month now. The Government should have held an emergency session by now, to prepare the system and take decisions towards eliminating these price shocks," said Filipche.

The SDSM leader added that the authorities have only "artificially" lowered the cost of living.

"They are revising the trade union's consumer basket, calling it a government basket, according to which people should eat less. Electricity prices will go up, as will basic food products due to the fuel hikes. Considering that the Government is not doing anything, we are proposing these measures for them to consider, in the citizens' interest," said Filipche.

Photo: MIA