The effects of increased production as a result of investments in the industrial zones are already evident, Deputy PM for economic affairs Vladimir Pesevski stated Wednesday after visiting Van Hool plant in Bunardzik zone.

"It's always a pleasure to visit a big factory and to see the results of government-led policies. But, it is necessary to attract more companies to invest in a bid to finally solve the unemployment issue," said Pesevski who met the company's managers along with the minister without portfolio in charge of foreign investments Vele Samak.

Buses intended for the US market are manufactured in the plant, where 430 people are already working. It is planned Van Hool's products to be promoted across Europe in due time.

"The investment so far is being realized without facing a standstill, however the Government is tasked with monitoring the progress of the companies and assisting if need be," added Pesevski.

Minister Samak said he was extremely proud of this investment. "It is very significant that this investment alone has a great impact on Macedonia's trade balance with the United States. It also shows that foreign investments affect the employment rate and close cooperations established between local and foreign firms," Samak stated.

The company's CEI Filip Van Hool praised the workers in Macedonia and their efficiency.

"We are happy with our investment in Macedonia in cooperation with the Government. Some 100 buses have been exported to the US so far. Models for the European market will be introduced in our production plan in mid-2014," said Van Hool.

Van Hool is a Belgian independent bus, coach and industrial vehicle manufacturer. The company, established in 1947, is based in Koningshooikt. Van Hool employs more than 4,000 people worldwide, most of whom work in the manufacturing plants in Koningshooikt and Bree.

Van Hool is the first plant in Macedonia's industrial zones that manufactures final products sold with the brand "Made in Macedonia".

Van Hool launched its operations in July 2013 after signing an agreement with the Government in 2012 on an investment worth Euro 20 million.