Retail Demand Watch: North Macedonia’s retail sales grew 2.1% year-on-year in April, down from 8.1% in March, with nominal turnover up 6.6%; food, beverages and tobacco led (up 17.3% nominal, 11.3% real), while automotive fuel fell 1.8% nominal and 19.4% real. Capital Markets: Iute Group increased its 2030 bond issuance via private placement, lifting outstanding 12% bonds due 2030 to EUR 300 million; proceeds back loan growth and refinance maturing in 2026. Digital Infrastructure Push: Legal amendments to enable data centre development in North Macedonia are in the final phase, aiming to attract investment into digital infrastructure and tech-linked industries. Regional Business & Energy: North Macedonia and Croatia are set to sign a strategic cooperation agreement, with a business forum in Ohrid and an energy-sector memorandum focused on interconnections and EU-aligned legislation. EU Accession Politics: Opposition leader Venko Filipče called for a referendum on constitutional changes tied to EU talks, responding to PM Hristijan Mickoski’s stance against amendments. Transport & Connectivity: The US flags Corridor 8 as a strategic priority, framing Western Balkans policy around stability and economic partnerships rather than state-building. Security & Migration: Spanish police, with Europol and Serbian partners, dismantled a network accused of smuggling Cuban nationals into Spain via routes including North Macedonia, with eight arrests and alleged “travel packages” around EUR 3,000 each.