Government consumer basket 11,000 denars cheaper than unions' estimate — Durmishi explains methodology

The consumer basket calculated by the Ministry of Economy for August stood at 58,845 denars, about 11,000 denars lower than the trade unions' estimate.

Minister attributes gap to different methodology

Economy Minister Besar Durmishi said the discrepancy stems from the different methodology and the set of products and costs included in the two calculations. He emphasised that the government's figure is based on observed spending rather than desired or theoretical needs.

Asked how much money households have left after paying all bills, Durmishi did not give a specific number, noting instead that the government calculation shows how much is needed for a four-member household for one month.

On inflation, which he said was 2.7 percent in September, the minister argued it is lower than the European average and added that the cut in fuel excise duties helped protect living standards.

Durmishi also stated that roughly 30,000 people earn the minimum wage, while the remaining 98 percent of employees receive more than the minimum.

The gap between the government and unions' baskets has reignited public debate about the real cost of monthly living and whether citizens' incomes are sufficient to cover basic expenses. Durmishi defended the government's use of internationally accepted statistical classifications and actual consumption data.

Photo: press material from the event