NEWS: Regional Blue Economy Network Officially Launched in North Macedonia

Macedonian Chambers of Commerce proudly announces the successful launch of the Regional Blue Economy Network (RBEN) in North Macedonia, marked by an Info Day held on June 27, 2025, at the EU Delegation in Skopje. The event brought together representatives of public institutions, the private sector, academia, civil society, and local organizations, all united in advancing sustainable growth through Blue Economy sectors.

The Blue Economy – central to the Growth4Blue project, co-funded by the EU’s IPA ADRION Programme, offers a forward-looking development model based on sustainable use of water resources. Although landlocked, North Macedonia has rich freshwater systems that provide strong potential for tourism, fisheries, aquaculture, agriculture, hydropower, and water management. These sectors, aligned with the European Green Deal, represent major opportunities for innovation, green transition, and economic competitiveness.

RBEN is a strategic platform designed to build national and regional cooperation, support innovation, and guide future policies in Blue Economy sectors. Its structure includes a Steering Committee, thematic Working Groups, and a Communication team dedicated to outreach and visibility. Members from business, research, NGOs, and local authorities will collaborate through a participatory approach. Memorandums of Understanding and a stakeholder questionnaire will further align activities with community needs.

Speakers at the launch included representatives from the Macedonian Chambers of Commerce leadership, the Growth4Blue team, the Regional Blue Economy Network, the Ministry of European Affairs, and sector researchers. The event also highlighted the presence of other important collaborators from key Blue Economy sectors, including tourism, water management, agriculture, aquaculture, clean tech, and local development organizations, whose contributions are essential for advancing the national Blue Economy agenda. A dynamic discussion followed, with participants expressing strong interest in cross-sector collaboration, training opportunities, and new project development.

With RBEN now established, the next phase focuses on implementation – strengthening cooperation, building capacities, and driving concrete actions for green and blue innovation. As the project progresses, the Macedonian Chambers of Commerce will include all interested organizations and individuals in the network, encouraging them to participate in upcoming activities and contribute to shaping a sustainable and inclusive Blue Economy in North Macedonia.