Closure Threat Hangs Over Key Factory in Macedonia

Macedonia's Environment Inspectorate has proposed closing an important factory in the country, which contributes 1 per cent of Macedonia's GDP, following its failure to meet Monday's deadline to install air filters.

"Reaching this decision was not easy, especially having in mind the social component and the significance that the work of this factory has for its employees. However, people's health is our priority," Environment Minister Bashkim Ameti said on Monday, adding that the government will have the final say on the factory's closure.

The Jugohrom factory produces ferrosilicium alloy near the village of Jegunovce in northwest Macedonia. Closure will mean laying off some 1,000 employees.

This factory is a major contributor to the economy. State Statistics Office data show that it generates 1 per cent of national GDP.

Its exports of metal alloys are responsible for 7 cent of the entire national export of metals, which is one of the backbones of the Macedonian economy.

However, its proximity to the large town of Tetovo has created long-standing ecological concerns. It is accused of significantly worsening air pollution in the town and the surrounding Polog valley, particularly with harmful PM 10 particles.

Tetovo Mayor Teuta Arifi insisted the closure of the factory was fully justified.

"This issue should be seen from the perspective of the benefit of all the people who live in the Polog valley," Mayor Arifi said, adding that he hoped that it would significantly reduce pollution in the town, which over the past few years has topped national and even European charts for air pollution.

The closure threat comes after the factory management two years ago won an extension of the deadline to install...