Skopje, 18.02.2026
The Minister of Economy and Labor Besar Durmishi today addressed the conference "Formalization of the Informal Economy: Through Cooperation to Success", dedicated to systemic measures and joint policies to reduce the gray economy and strengthen the formal sector.
In his address, Minister Durmishi emphasized that the informal economy is a complex and long-term challenge that distorts competition, harms workers and reduces the fiscal capacity of the state. He emphasized that for some citizens, undeclared work is not a choice, but a necessity, which requires a response through the creation of decent and stable jobs.
"Any compromise with the gray economy means lower economic growth, fewer public services and a lower quality of life. That is why we need systemic, consistent and sustainable solutions," the Minister emphasized.
The Ministry of Economy and Labor has provided EUR40 million this year for the new Operational Plan for Employment, with measures aimed at formalizing work and creating new jobs. In addition, the Law on Work Engagement of Persons has been adopted, which aims to formalize certain forms of work and adapt the legal framework to the real needs of the labor market.
The Law on Financial Support for Investments, which stimulates companies that invest, create new jobs and achieve growth, will also come into effect on January 1, 2026. According to the Minister, the combination of active measures and legal solutions means simultaneously suppressing the gray economy and strong support for the formal sector.
In his presentation, Minister Durmishi also emphasized the importance of the green agenda, digitalization and the introduction of modern technologies, which will enable better recording and regulation of new and non-standard forms of employment.
At the conference was also signed a "Declaration of Partnership and Action: Shared Commitment to Formalizing the Informal Economy in North Macedonia", whereby institutions, the business community, unions, and academia confirmed their joint commitment to coordinated action.
"The fight against the gray economy is a fight for a better future. We may not be able to completely eradicate it, but we can constantly reduce it. With joint efforts, we can build a fairer, more sustainable and more prosperous country," said the Minister of Economy and Labor Besar Durmishi.
