North Macedonia’s Ministry of Finance published the results of supervisory work on financial companies, identifying fraudulent trading practices linked to the advertising of financial services and other actions that it considers contrary to the Consumer Protection Act. The Ministry instructed financial companies where irregularities were found to remove advertisements and business-premises signs that could mislead users of financial services. The review flagged cases where “0% interest” was advertised even though loan agreements included additional costs. Other irregularities included advertising financial services under brands without naming the financial company providing the service, the use of multiple websites by the same financial company, and the use of a company name at business premises that differs from the name specified in the company’s operating permit. The Ministry reiterated that companies must use only the name stated in the permit issued by the Ministry and operate a website that clearly indicates which financial company it relates to. The Ministry warned it will take available measures to protect citizens as users of financial services if the identified misleading advertising and signage are not removed.
Ministry of Finance (North Macedonia) 2026-03-11
North Macedonia Ministry of Finance identifies fraudulent advertising practices by financial companies and orders removal of misleading signage
North Macedonia’s Ministry of Finance identified fraudulent trading practices in financial companies, including misleading advertising contrary to the Consumer Protection Act. Irregularities involved deceptive "0% interest" claims, undisclosed financial service providers, and inconsistent company naming. The Ministry has mandated corrective actions and warned of further measures to protect consumers if non-compliance persists.