The Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning will organize a public hearing for the procedure of renewing the operating permit for the Usje Cement Factory. A request for a new integrated A-permit has already been submitted.

The citizens' initiative "Stop for Usje" organized a protest in front of the ministry, demanding transparency in the permit issuance process. Environment Minister Muamet Hodža stated that he "respects and supports peaceful protests as a democratic right of citizens" and confirmed that the public hearing will be held.

"Representatives of citizens' organizations, initiatives, and expert public will be invited to the public hearing," the minister announced, emphasizing the importance of a transparent process for environmental protection. The integrated environmental permit, issued by the ministry, will be valid for 7 years and defines the conditions under which the factory can operate.

Previously, Skopje councilors proposed relocating the factory outside urban areas. Experts have suggested that Usje operate on gas with independent monitoring.