State Market Inspectorate says it is addressing weaknesses flagged by State Audit Office

The State Market Inspectorate (DPI) announced that it is implementing a set of measures to correct shortcomings flagged by the State Audit Office in its recent report, including an adverse opinion on the objectivity of DPI's 2024 financial statements and a qualified opinion on legal compliance for the 2023–2024 audit period.

Measures, staffing and digitalisation

“After taking office, we identified some of the deficiencies and challenges facing the institution. Precisely because of the need for a complete and independent review of the situation, a request was submitted for an audit to the State Audit Office,” said DPI Director Vlatko Stojkoski.

Stojkoski told reporters that the Inspectorate has already launched concrete steps to remove the recorded weaknesses, strengthen human resources, improve financial and material record‑keeping, and upgrade inspection procedures and digital processes. He said preparations are underway for a software solution that will cover all work processes at the Inspectorate, supported by the EU.

The director added that special attention is being paid to staffing and to boosting inspectors’ capacities, as well as to improving conditions for continuous laboratory testing and control of unsafe products. According to DPI, the corrective activities began in 2025 while the audited period covered 2023–2024.

The State Audit Office’s report pointed to insufficient personnel, incomplete digitalisation, weaknesses in financial and material management at the DPI, and inadequate arrangements to ensure continuous control of hazardous products. DPI said it welcomes the audit findings and the recommendations contained in the report.

Officials said the institution will continue working on strengthening control capacities and on modernising its administrative and technical systems to meet legal and safety requirements.

Photo: MIA