Young people in North Macedonia may soon have a powerful incentive to return to or remain in rural areas. The government plans to offer up to €100,000 in financial support to couples who choose to build their future in the countryside.

The aid, part of a new draft law on agriculture and rural development, is aimed at encouraging long-term investment in rural life. To qualify, beneficiaries must commit to working in agriculture for at least 10 years—otherwise, the full amount must be repaid.

According to Ferikan Iljazi, Euronews Albania correspondent in North Macedonia, the initiative is currently in public review and would apply to young couples under the age of 40 who invest in rural living.

The financial support can be used for:

• Building or renovating houses and agricultural facilities

• Buying land or agricultural machinery

• Establishing farms or launching rural businesses

The law also supports young entrepreneurs aiming to start new businesses in villages, with potential funding up to €100,000 in such cases as well.

To help farmers manage increasing climate-related risks, the state will cover up to 70% of costs related to agricultural production. Collaborative projects between two or more farmers will also be eligible for shared funding covering up to 70% of project costs.

Other support measures include:

• Subsidized loan interest rates and bank guarantees to ease access to finance

• “Green diesel” subsidies, covering up to 100% of fuel costs for farm machinery (capped at €1,600 per household)

• A market intervention fund to offset losses from market disruptions and rising costs

The draft law is open for public consultation until May 28, with a public hearing scheduled for June 2. This initiative represents a significant step to reverse rural depopulation and boost the country’s agricultural sector.