Latest news in North Macedonia? September 17th, 2026

Recent developments and headlines in North Macedonia around mid-September 2026:

• Temporary Fuel VAT Cut: In response to petroleum supply strain and elevated cross-border consumption, the government implemented a temporary reduction of value-added tax (VAT) on motor fuel from 18% down to 10%, taking effect September 15 to alleviate price pressures on consumers and transport.

  www.bta.bg

• Energy & Infrastructure Financing: The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) advanced plans to support North Macedonia’s green energy transition, weighing financing packages including a €33 million loan for utility-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) and transmission network upgrades via state operator MEPSO.

  NewsNow

• EU Integration and Regional Reforms: Skopje hosted high-level regional meetings with European enlargement officials, focusing on accelerating structural reforms, administrative coordination, and regional alignment needed to advance the country’s accession path.

  NewsNow

• Economic Indicators: The State Statistical Office reported on September 17 that domestic agricultural producer prices fell by 2.2% year-on-year in August, while the central bank maintained its benchmark policy rate at 4.25% to sustain macroeconomic stability.

  SeeNews

• 35th Independence Anniversary: The country recently marked its 35th year of independence (observed on September 8), drawing official statements of alliance and strategic partnership from international partners, including the United States and EU institutions.

  State Department