Aleksandar Nikoloski calls for solution to help carriers and free flow of goods
Nikoloski urged measures to stop delays for carriers and warned about unfair competition in EU-related infrastructure tenders.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Aleksandar Nikoloski sent a firm message that the government must find a solution for road carriers and guarantee an unhindered flow of goods, without hold-ups, waiting or obstacles.
The appeal came during a business forum held at the Chamber of Commerce in Skopje, where Nikoloski addressed representatives from logistics companies, exporters and other members of the private sector.
He also warned of unfair competition in EU-related tenders
Nikoloski pointed to what he described as unfair competition in the tendering process for infrastructure projects connected to the European Union, saying the largest contracts are being awarded to firms from China and India instead of European companies.
"I think we are talking about an absurdity. In the 21st century, with recognized liberalizations with a country candidate for EU membership that has started negotiations, to discuss whether a Macedonian carrier should, when he gets into a truck, count the days, hours and minutes. If we have unfair competition on one hand, and we do not have free flow of goods and merchandise, then there is no point to discuss anything. And conversely, if we solve these two problems, then the opportunities are enormous," said Nikoloski.
He urged authorities to prioritise measures that will reduce delays at borders and other bottlenecks for transport companies, arguing that resolving the twin problems of market access and fair competition would open significant economic opportunities for local firms.
Photo: press material from the event
