Plant "Prodis" of Russian pharmaceutical holding "Protek Group" for production of homeopathic medicines, organic and non-organic cereal products, as well as organic and non-organic teas, vitamins and minerals opened in technological-industrial development zone (TIDZ) Skopje 1 on Wednesday.

The plant will initially employ 45 people, with the number increasing to 80 by the year-end. The second stage includes the enlargement of the existing facility and opening of 80 more jobs.

Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski and the Government's economic team officially opened the factory.

"October is definitely the month of investments in Macedonia. Skopje City Mall, Kemet Electronics, Teknohose, Prodis have all opened in the course of this month", said Gruevski.

According to him, the "Prodis" plant should bring novelties in the production of medicines, enabling direct and indirect employment of individuals, primarily from Macedonia's rural areas, where the company would use raw materials from.

"Macedonia is a regional leader in doing business, assuming the fifth spot in global terms. The country's success has been acknowledged by Fitch agency's confirmation of the BB+ rating", stressed PM Gruevski, hoping that other Russian companies would follow Protek Group and invest in Macedonia.

Vice Premier and Finance Minister Zoran Stavreski stressed the plant opening came as a result of the meeting with investors during the Government's road shows.

"The first factors for attracting foreign investments in Macedonia are the meetings and road shows organized by the Government. The second factor is the country's ranking at the 23. spot in the Doing Business report, whereas the third is the Macedonian diaspora, which assures foreigners that Macedonia is a good place for investment", said Stavreski.

Protek Group is one of the largest pharmaceutical companies of Russia. The Group has diversified business interests and operates in all major segments of the pharmaceutical industry such as medicine manufacturing, distribution and retail of pharmaceutical, health and beauty products. The Group employs over 12,000 specialists.