Union: September living basket nearly 70,000 denars, rent pushes it to about 85,000

The Union of Trade Unions of Macedonia (SSM) says the minimum household basket for September reached nearly 70,000 denars, an increase of almost 800 denars compared with August. Including the cost of renting a 60-square-metre apartment, the union's calculations put monthly needs at roughly 85,000 denars.

Breakdown and public reaction

According to the SSM figures, the largest share of monthly spending — about 25,000 denars — goes to food and beverages. Education accounts for around 7,000 denars, while rent, water, electricity and heating add up to 6,379 denars.

Citizens interviewed showed mixed reactions. One said: "Every day things get more and more expensive... I already know the prices by heart, there is no end." Another commented: "Wages do not follow living costs. Pensions have fallen behind compared to living costs. This used to be 20 denars, now it's 40 denars — our pension hasn't been raised that much. But it's fine, we don't work, it's okay."

A different voice defended the situation: "Honestly, I think everything is fine, normal; those who complain they can't make it monthly — at New Year they'll roast a pig... they cry, but they'll roast a pig." Another resident questioned the calculation: "The basket is wrong. I think the Green Market is among the cheapest in Europe. I travel and I know. Wages are adequate if workers are responsible; pensions may be low."

The SSM warns that incomes needed to cover basic living costs exceed the current average wage in the country and calls for a minimum wage of 600 euros.

Opposition party SDSM criticized the government and appealed to Parliament to adopt its proposal to raise the minimum wage. In its statement SDSM said: "The union basket has increased by almost 1,000 denars in just one month. When costs for rent for an average apartment or mortgage installment are added, it reaches nearly 90,000 denars. In Macedonia it has become impossible to live under the criminal rule led by Hristijan Mickoski. We urge the government to put forward our proposal in Parliament to raise the minimum wage."

Photo: press material from the event