Trade Cooperation between North Macedonia and Türkiye
The business forum organized by the Macedonian-Turkish Chamber of Commerce (MATTO) in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is of great importance in terms of the development of trade relations and cooperation between the two countries. The speeches held at this forum with the participation of North Macedonian government officials and the Turkish Ambassador to Skopje, Fatih Ulusoy, helped Turkish investors better understand the opportunities in North Macedonia.
Center of Attraction for Investors
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, in his speech at the forum, emphasized his determination regarding the economy and stated that investors should see themselves as a strong partner. “You are the people who work here. You are the heroes who provide the salaries of the workers who remain in this country and we are fighting to keep them here,” Mickoski said, expressing his respect for the business community.
Thus, North Macedonia is becoming an attractive market for investors, and the government's supportive policies further reinforce this situation.
The Role of Turkish Companies
Ambassador Fatih Ulusoy drew attention to the economic activities of Turkish companies in North Macedonia, stating that these companies provide employment for approximately 10 thousand people. He also stated that Turkish companies are active in many sectors in the country. This is an important factor in Turkish investors seeing the potential in North Macedonia.
- Providing Employment: Turkish companies create significant employment in North Macedonia.
- Economic Growth: By contributing to the local economy, they support economic growth.
- High quality: The services and products offered by Turkish companies are quite high in terms of quality standards.
The Supportive Role of the Government
The government of North Macedonia is taking various steps to facilitate the business processes of Turkish investors. Minister of Foreign Affairs Timco Mucinski plays an important role in this regard and is actively working to strengthen relations between the two countries. In addition, reducing bureaucratic obstacles and facilitating work permits encourages Turkish companies to invest in the country.
Increasing Trade Volume
Ulusoy stated that the trade volume between the two countries has reached $1 billion and that increasing this figure to $2 billion is among their goals. He emphasized that updating the current free trade agreement is of great importance in order to achieve this goal. Thus, steps to be taken to increase trade between the two countries will offer great opportunities for the business world.
Potential Cooperation in the Defense Industry
The Turkish government has stated that it is ready to meet the needs of North Macedonia in the field of defense industry. In this context, increasing defense industry cooperation between the two countries is also of great importance in terms of regional security. Ulusoy expressed their determination in this regard by saying, “If we care about the peace, tranquility and security of our own country, we should also respect the needs of North Macedonia in this regard.”
The Role and Importance of MATTO
MATTO President Aydoğan Ademoski stated that Turkish investments account for 38% of total investments in North Macedonia. This rate shows the great contribution of Turkish companies to the country's economy. Ademoski said, "MATTO is a bridge that connects the two countries, North Macedonia and the Republic of Turkey," and drew attention to the importance of the chamber of commerce. Such forums allow business representatives to communicate directly with government officials.
Future Vision
The further strengthening of relations between the two countries is supported by mutual high-level visits. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan's visit to North Macedonia is an important step in advancing these relations. Trade Minister Ömer Bolat's visit to Skopje in the coming months will be an important development that will increase trade between the two countries.
As a result, cooperation between North Macedonia and Turkey offers great opportunities for both countries. An attractive market for Turkish investors, North Macedonia is becoming an important economic center with the government's supportive policies and employment provided by Turkish companies. Strengthening these relations will contribute to the economic growth of both countries and strengthen regional stability.
