Energy Transition & Power Infrastructure: North Macedonia is moving to integrate a gigawatt-sized project pipeline, with investor interest rising as the Ministry of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources approves dozens of solar projects totaling over 3 GW for 2026. Energy Markets & Regulation: The Energy Community’s regulator board is pushing reforms to help “active customers” in North Macedonia and the wider region generate, store and sell electricity—arguing rules must evolve to unlock flexibility and cut transition costs. Solar Buildout: A separate report highlights that approvals for new power projects in North Macedonia are accelerating sharply versus last year, pointing to faster capacity growth once the regulatory shift settles. Governance & Oversight: Skopje’s Anti-Corruption Commission is investigating the Cabinet Secretary General’s assets, keeping pressure on public-sector integrity. Cybersecurity: A new malware campaign, SharkLoader, has targeted organizations including entities linked to North Macedonia, raising fresh concerns for diplomacy, software firms and critical sectors. Business & Investment Climate: Slovenia’s central bank data shows manufacturing leading inbound FDI and notes outbound investment growth—useful context for regional capital flows that North Macedonia competes for. EU Trade Watch: The EU’s steel safeguard changes—halving duty-free quotas while adjusting rates for FTA partners—could ripple into regional construction and manufacturing supply chains. Climate & Industry Risk: Europe’s heatwave continues to disrupt energy and operations, with knock-on risks for agriculture and infrastructure planning across the region.