EBRD financing for North Macedonia rail transport gets EUR 20.9m boost

The EBRD financing for North Macedonia rail transport takes the form of a sovereign loan of up to EUR 20.9 million, intended to reinforce the country’s rail sector and support modernization at Macedonian Railways Transport – Joint Stock Company Skopje (MRT), as set out by the EBRD.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

EBRD loan for North Macedonia railways: what the funding covers

At the core of the package are two upgrades: the purchase of up to five new electric locomotives and the rollout of a modern enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. The same financing is framed as a step toward modernizing rail freight operations and tightening day-to-day management at MRT, as reported by Railway Pro.

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The programme is being implemented by the Ministry of Transport and supported by the Ministry of Finance. In practical terms, it is intended to help MRT modernize its rolling stock, improve operational efficiency and service quality, and strengthen safety across freight transport activities.

Corporate development plan for MRT and EU-aligned methodology updates

The effort is not limited to equipment and software. It also includes a corporate development plan focused on raising efficiency and improving MRT’s financial sustainability, with an efficiency action plan setting out specific measures to refine the company’s tariff methodology.

In parallel, the methodology for public service obligations is set to be updated and harmonized in line with EU requirements, reflecting the structure described on the EBRD project page.

Locomotives, ERP system, and expected benefits

Finance Minister Gordana Dimitrieska Kočoska said the agreement followed intensive and constructive negotiations and reflects international financial institutions’ confidence in the country’s policy direction. She added that the terms — a long repayment period, a favorable grace period, and a competitive interest rate — align with the government’s strategy for responsible public debt management and sustainable public finances.

Transport Minister Aleksandar Nikoloski described the financing as an opportunity to complete a major process that includes purchasing at least five electric locomotives together with related spare parts. With five new locomotives and four newer existing locomotives, MRT would have nine modern locomotives capable of covering all freight transport, with some also used for passenger transport.

The investment is expected to generate significant economic and environmental benefits. By boosting the competitiveness and sustainability of North Macedonia’s rail sector, the financing supports the country’s transition to a greener and more competitive transport system. At the same time, the modern ERP system is expected to streamline MRT’s core processes and contribute to further gains in operational efficiency.

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