In his concluding statement, Zoran Dimitrovski, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, summarized the key outcomes of the Forum and outlined a set of follow-up actions aimed at translating the discussions into concrete measures that strengthen competitiveness, resilience, sustainability, and inclusive economic growth. 

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Establish a National Private Sector Sustainability Platform 

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A key proposal is the creation of a national multi-stakeholder platform bringing together government institutions, businesses, financial institutions, chambers of commerce, academia, civil society, and development partners. The platform would coordinate efforts, facilitate dialogue, support companies, and accelerate sustainable and inclusive development. 

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Increase Support for SMEs 

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Recognizing the central role of SMEs in the economy, participants called for expanded support to help companies prepare for evolving EU market requirements, including ESG reporting, CBAM obligations, and sustainable supply-chain standards. Proposed measures include strengthening advisory services, training programmes, grants, export support, and access to green finance through more integrated and accessible support mechanisms. Particular emphasis was placed on developing skills in ESG management, digitalization, resource efficiency, sustainable production, and export readiness. 

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Improve Access to Sustainable Finance 

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Participants emphasized the need to expand blended financing models that combine public incentives, international finance, and commercial lending. Increased support is recommended for investments in energy efficiency, renewable energy, digitalization, circular economy solutions, and cleaner production technologies. Simplifying application procedures and expanding technical assistance for companies, particularly SMEs, were identified as additional priorities. 

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Strengthen the Role of Business Chambers 

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Business chambers were recognized as important partners in supporting the sustainability transition. The Forum proposed strengthening their role as providers of ESG advisory services, export mentoring, supplier-development programmes, certification support, peer-learning initiatives, and practical guidance for businesses responding to evolving market requirements. 

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Measure Progress 

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To track implementation and results, participants proposed the development of a National Sustainable Competitiveness Dashboard. The dashboard would monitor indicators related to corporate sustainability, export diversification, green investments, ESG adoption, access to finance, and compliance with EU market requirements. Regular progress reporting would support accountability and inform future policy adjustments. 

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Looking Ahead 

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Participants reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration among government, the private sector, academia, financial institutions, and development partners. Organizers also expressed their intention to establish the Forum as an annual flagship event, jointly organized by the Government, the private sector, and the United Nations, to review progress, strengthen partnerships, and advance North Macedonia’s sustainability and competitiveness agenda.