The increase in industrial production alongside the positive indicators in trade and export are showing the first signs of economic recovery and the possibility of realising the projected economic growth in 2013, said Deputy PM and Finance Minister Zoran Stavreski on Wednesday.

Commenting the increase in industrial production in April by 4%, he said he believed that Macedonia's industry and economy would conclude the year with positive figures.

"It's a fact that a rise in industrial production has been registered for three months in a row. It is definitely encouraging demonstrating that there is a trend of increase in industrial production, even though latest developments in Europe are not so positive. It is also an additional fact for us to believe that in the second half of 2013, when the European economy is expected to be stabilised, the industrial production and the overall economy will keep on rising in Macedonia," Stavreski said answering journalist questions.

He added that attempts would be made by the end of the year to stimulate the economic growth through active policies, by adopting measures for small and medium-sized enterprises through favourable credits and by realising capital investments.