A poll conducted by the Council of Foreign Investors within the Macedonian Chamber of Commerce found that 84 percent of foreign companies that opened business in Macedonia are satisfied with the conditions and would invest again if they have the chance.
"We see that this are not mere words, as Van Hool and Johnson Controls announced opening up their new plants in Skopje and in Strumica", said EVN's Stefan Peter, who presented the results of the poll on Monday.
According to Peter, foreign investors see the political crisis in Macedonia as a protracted event that is having long-term consequences on the economy.
Peter noted that it is possible that some foreign companies would postpone plans to invest in Macedonia.
"But, if the political environment is stabilized quickly, it will not only attract new foreign investment, but would encourage those already here to expand their business", he added.
The poll showed that 68 percent of foreign companies operating in Macedonia were able to meet their business plans, 72 percent said they do not plan any changes in their operations, and 20 percent expect to see improvements.
Only 8 percent said they were expecting a deterioration in their plans, mostly due to developments in their respective markets abroad which they service with products made in Macedonia.
According to Peter, the poll showed that foreign investors are broadly satisfied with the taxation policy, the quality of workforce available in Macedonia and the stable business environment. Their main issues are related to legal, societal and political stability.
The frequent changes in administrative procedures were raised as an issue, and the inefficient fight against corruption. An overwhelming majority of polled business representatives believe that European Union membership will improve Macedonia's business climate.
The Council of Foreign Investors has 118 members and has been active for 10 years. Peter said that it will hold a humanitarian food tasting event on June 5, to collect funds for the soup kitchens operating across the country.