Skopje, 27 March 2026 (MIA) - The Government is monitoring the situation with the oil prices and if they continue to rise after the expiry of the fortnight-long measure to cut VAT from 18 to 10 percent, then the excise tax and costs related to storage and transport will be reduced as well, said Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski on Friday.

"As in no other country in Europe, the Government has dipped directly into the budget by reducing the VAT for oil from 18 to 10 percent. We will monitor the situation and intervene based on the developments in the coming period," PM Mickoski told reporters.

On the State Statistical Office's data regarding the wage increase in January, he said the Government is always trying to lower inflation and increase wages.

"Is this enough? No, the Government must always do more and we will try lower inflation and increase wages. This is our priority now and it will be our priority in the future as well", said Mickoski.

Regarding the possibility of Government measures to prevent food price hikes, the PM said 30 teams of the State Market Inspectorate are currently on the field.

"They look at all costs and we adopt a strategy and policy based on these costs. Of course, we will act when we identify market violation practices," said Mickoski.

Photo: MIA