Overview
The construction sector is a significant component of North Macedonia’s economy, serving as a key employment driver and accounting for 6–7 percent of the GDP. In 2023, the gross value added (GVA) to the economy from construction reached approximately $260 million. The industry’s expansion is further evidenced by a 6.6 percent rise in the expenditure on building materials and energy in 2023 compared to the previous year, indicating robust demand for construction resources and services. North Macedonia’s strategic investments in infrastructure, such as the $295 million allocation to municipalities for infrastructure projects, have created numerous opportunities for local and international construction firms. The sector’s outlook remains positive, driven by ongoing infrastructure projects and urban development initiatives. With continued governmental support and a growing demand for construction services, North Macedonia presents a promising landscape for investment and growth in the construction industry.
Opportunities
There are both export and investment opportunities available for U.S. companies in the construction and building materials sector. Buildings in North Macedonia are energy inefficient and take a relatively long time to build. New construction is required to meet strict seismic construction requirements, particularly in Skopje, the country’s most active seismic zone. Wood and steel frame buildings are almost completely unused, though builders in North Macedonia are exploring American-style platform-frame wood construction and prefabricated housing. This situation offers many opportunities to promote high-tech American building materials based on advanced U.S. technology. U.S. building products that may have good market prospects include wood and vinyl windows, doors, flooring and kitchen cabinets, suspended ceilings, insulation, adhesives, cements, roofing shingles, heating and ventilation equipment, air conditioning, refrigeration, and cooling systems. The domestic market in North Macedonia offers primarily cement, cement products, and gypsum products. Companies interested in investing in construction and infrastructure need to be aware that North Macedonia is seismically active, especially in the capital of Skopje, and therefore has strict earthquake standards.