Five industrial zones are operational across Macedonia - two in Skopje, and one each in Kicevo, Prilep and Stip. We are nearing completion the zones in Struga, Ohrid and Strumica and also contemplate the opening of new ones in Kumanovo, Lipkovo and Mavrovo-Rostuse, said Prime Minister Emil Dimitriev at a Q&A session in the Parliament on Thursday.

"Since 2014, the Government has invested about EUR 18,3 million in infrastructure within the zones. They are built in line with global standards in order to attract investors. The zones currently host capacities by 24 companies, 15 of which are fully active, while the remaining are preparing to start production", said Dimitriev.

According to him, companies operating in the industrial zones are beneficial for the local economic development, have an effect on the unemployment rate and exports.

"Exports from the zones in 2014 accounted for 31 percent of the country's total exports, increasing to 36 percent in 2015. The number of people currently employed in the zones is 6,500", added Dimitriev.

He said the entry of foreign companies in the industrial zones has had an effect on domestic companies, who largely appear as contractors.

"About 500 domestic companies support these 24 foreign companies and I hope the trend will continue in the future", added Dimitriev.

He expressed regret that the long-standing political crisis in the country has had negative effects on the zones and the attraction of foreign investments.

"I am optimistic that we will return to the former trend of attracting foreign investments and opening new plants after the elections and the end of this crisis", underlined PM Dimitriev.