With a low interest rate of 2,9 percent to end users, domestic micro, small and medium companies through qualified banks will be able to use the credit line of the national Development Bank intended for digitalization and digital transformation.

Kire Naumov, director of the Development Bank, announced at a press conference in the Government that the implementation of the credit line was initially exclusively from own funds. Companies will be able to apply for an amount of up to 300 thousand euros for fixed assets with a repayment term of 8 years plus a 12 month grace period. The amount for working capital is up to 100 euros, and the repayment term is 5 years plus a 6-month grace period. The new credit line was promoted by Prime Minister Dimitar Kovacevski, who pointed out that digitization enables companies to develop faster and more efficiently.

- The degree of digitization and economic development are directly related, they not only open doors for new opportunities for companies, but also make them more competitive and open new business opportunities for employment of graduates from our universities - Kovacevski said. He emphasized that the Government is committed to creating opportunities for access to funds for investment and implementation of digital strategies and plans, i.e. for digital transformation.

The ambassador of Switzerland, Véronique Ullmann Marty, at the promotion of the new credit line, said that digitization is a prerequisite for the transformation of society, for the growth of the economy and for the prosperity of the country.

- Investing in digital transformation requires significant financial and human resources in the short and long term, said the ambassador.

-Recognizing the importance of a well-created credit line, Switzerland is willing to support the Development Bank of North Macedonia to conduct an analysis of the needs for financing digitization in the private sector by reaching out to companies across the country, said Ambassador Marti.