Rising fuel costs have become a significant burden for citizens in North Macedonia, who argue that prices are disproportionately high compared to the local standard of living.
In recent interviews, many residents expressed frustration, noting that with average pensions hovering around 250 euros, the luxury of driving a vehicle is becoming increasingly unattainable. "With the standard we have, it is impossible to manage," one citizen remarked.
While government officials have historically claimed the country maintains the lowest fuel prices in the region, the public remains skeptical. Past measures, such as temporary VAT reductions on diesel and gasoline, have largely been phased out.
Currently, the only remaining government relief is a reduced excise duty on diesel. Meanwhile, the country's largest fuel supplier, OKTA, recently announced a modest reduction of two denars per liter, but strictly for gasoline, leaving many consumers seeking more substantial government intervention.
