High-Level Delegation Explores Bilateral Opportunities in Skopje
A high-level delegation from Dubai Chambers, led by President and CEO Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, recently concluded an official visit to Skopje, North Macedonia. The delegation met with North Macedonia's Prime Minister, Professor Dr. Hristijan Mickoski, to explore and strengthen bilateral trade and investment opportunities between Dubai and North Macedonia. The discussions focused on enhancing economic partnerships across various key sectors.
This visit forms a crucial part of Dubai Chambers' 'Growth Corridors' initiative, which aims to deepen economic cooperation with high-potential global markets. The initiative seeks to foster strategic partnerships and joint ventures, reinforcing Dubai's position as a leading international business hub.
Deepening Economic Cooperation and Identifying Key Sectors
During the meeting, both parties emphasized their commitment to boosting trade and investment flows and unlocking new business opportunities. Prime Minister Mickoski highlighted that the visit 'opens new opportunities to deepen bilateral economic ties, forge partnerships, and advance joint projects and investments.' Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah reiterated Dubai Chambers' dedication to 'advancing international trade cooperation and building bridges for joint economic activity with partners worldwide.'
Key sectors identified for enhanced collaboration include:
- Trade
- Energy
- Tourism
- Agriculture
- Technology
- Real estate
- Construction
- Education
Growing Trade Figures and Future Outlook
The economic relationship between Dubai and North Macedonia has shown significant growth. Non-oil trade between the two entities reached AED 1.8 billion (approximately US$489 million) during the five-year period from 2020 to 2024. Furthermore, the number of North Macedonian companies registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce has seen a remarkable increase of 522% in under five years, growing from just nine at the end of 2020 to 56 by mid-2025. These companies operate in diverse sectors such as real estate, business services, trading, construction, and education.
High-potential products identified for export from North Macedonia to Dubai include pharmaceuticals, apparel, bakery products, preserved vegetables, marble and stone, mineral waters, and copper wire. The visit builds on previous engagements, including Prime Minister Mickoski's visit to Dubai Chambers in April 2025, underscoring a sustained effort to strengthen economic ties.
5 Comments
Noir Black
Great to see proactive engagement building new partnerships.
KittyKat
While expanding global supply chains is beneficial, the environmental footprint of increased shipping and industrial activity needs careful monitoring and mitigation strategies.
Loubianka
What about the impact on local, smaller businesses in North Macedonia?
Michelangelo
While the economic growth is promising, I hope there are strong regulations in place to prevent exploitation of local resources and labor.
Manolo Noriega
These deals always sound good but lack real transparency on the ground.