Union minimum basket for September tops 69,432 denars
SSM: a four-member family needs 25,259 denars for food; with a 60 m² rented flat the basket rises to 84,807 denars.
The Confederation of Trade Unions of Macedonia (SSM) says the union minimum basket for September 2026 totals 69,432 denars, according to the organisation's latest calculations.
That figure is up by 757 denars compared with August, when the basket stood at 68,675 denars. Compared with the same month last year, the cost has risen by 4,355 denars.
Breakdown and housing scenario
SSM’s calculations show that a four-member household needs 25,259 denars for food and beverages in September, which equals 36.4% of the total union minimum basket. If the household pays rent for a 60-square-metre flat, the required monthly amount rises to 84,807 denars.
“In September 2025 the union minimum basket was 65,077 denars. In only one year, the required minimum monthly budget has increased by 4,355 denars,” the Confederation said.
The monthly movements reflect continuing pressure on living costs, with food and housing remaining the largest single components of the basket. SSM produces the figure to indicate the minimum resources a household needs to cover basic living expenses.
The union’s published numbers will be watched by employers, policy makers and social partners as they assess wages, social transfers and price developments in the coming months.
Photo: press material from the event
