Skopje News
News
Skopje prepares for the annual Skopje Summer Festival with city-wide decorations and infrastructure upgrades along the Vardar River. The municipality announced a new pedestrian zone in the Old Bazaar area, set to open next month. Meanwhile, air quality concerns resurface as pollution levels rise above EU standards for the third consecutive day.
Business News
North Macedonia's tech sector shows 20% growth, with Skopje-based startups attracting €15 million in foreign investment this quarter. The Chamber of Commerce reports increased trade activity with EU partners, particularly in agricultural exports. A new shopping mall near Aerodrom municipality begins construction, promising 1,200 new jobs upon completion in late 2026.
Economic News
The National Bank maintains interest rates at 4.5% as inflation stabilizes at 5.8%. The denar remains pegged to the euro at 61.5 MKD/EUR. Economists warn that energy price fluctuations could impact the country's trade deficit in Q3. The government announces new incentives for renewable energy investments.
Political News
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski meets with EU officials to discuss accelerated accession talks. Opposition parties criticize the government's handling of recent healthcare reforms, threatening protests if changes aren't made. The city council debates controversial plans to relocate the central bus station.
Election News
With local elections approaching in October, voter registration drives intensify across Skopje's municipalities. Recent polls show tight races in Čair and Centar districts. The State Election Commission begins testing new electronic voting machines in selected polling stations.
Employment News
Unemployment in Skopje drops to 15.3%, the lowest in a decade, with particular growth in construction and IT sectors. The Ministry of Labor launches new vocational training programs focused on green energy jobs. Hospitality businesses report severe staffing shortages ahead of peak tourist season.
Business News
The Macedonian Stock Exchange index rises 1.2%, led by gains in banking and telecom stocks. Trading volume increases by 18% compared to last week. Analysts note growing interest in construction companies as infrastructure projects expand.
Forecast
Skopje experiences summer heat with temperatures ranging from 28°C (82°F) to 35°C (95°F). Mostly sunny with occasional afternoon thunderstorms expected on June 29 and 22. Moderate air pollution warnings remain in effect, especially in the city center.
Entertainment News
Skopje's film industry celebrates as local production "Balkan Shadows" wins Best Debut at the Sarajevo Film Festival. The city's nightlife scene expands with three new rooftop bars opening this month. Popular Serbian turbo-folk singer Seka Aleksić announces July concert at Boris Trajkovski Arena.
Upcoming Events in Skopje (June 28-30, 2025)
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June 28-20 - Skopje Wine Festival (Macedonia Square)
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June 29 - International Yoga Day (City Park)
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June 21 - Skopje Summer Festival opening (Various venues)
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June 22 - Skopje Marathon (Early registration closes)
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June 23 - Jazz Under the Stars concert series (Old Bazaar)
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June 24 - National Theater premiere of "Hamlet" in Macedonian
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June 25-27 - Balkan Food Fair (Skopje Fair)
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June 26 - Vardar vs. Shkëndija football derby (National Arena)
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June 28 - Traditional Folk Dance Festival (MKC)
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June 30 - Skopje Philharmonic Summer Concert (Millennium Cross)
town Update
North Macedonia's national football team begins preparations for September's Nations League matches. RK Vardar handball club secures funding for new youth academy facilities. The city announces plans to bid for 2030 Mediterranean Games.
Cultural Highlights
The Museum of Contemporary Art opens a major exhibition of Balkan modernist painters. Skopje's Old Bazaar begins its summer program of free traditional music performances every Friday evening.
Transport Notice
Major delays expected on blvd. Partizanski due to roadworks until July 10. New electric buses enter service on lines 4 and 8. Taxi drivers protest proposed ride-sharing regulations.
Health Advisory
Health authorities report increased cases of heat exhaustion, advising residents to stay hydrated. Free skin cancer screenings available at city clinics throughout June. Mosquito control measures intensify after West Nile virus detection in nearby areas.
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