A factory for bottled water "Maya", an investment of Croatian company "Mali Losinj" opened near Debar village Gari on Monday.

EUR 14 million have been invested in the factory over past 3,5 years, since the company obtained the concession.

"This investment is of enormous significance not only for Gari and Debar, but also the western region in Macedonia, towards equal and sustainable economic development", said Economy Minister Driton Kuqi.

The bottled water from the factory is intended for export, primarily in neighboring and Arab countries, Croatia and Russia.

"Quality standards have been taken into consideration, meaning that the high-quality water produced according to the latest technology will be competitive at the global market", added Kuqi.

Debar Mayor Ruzdi Lata stressed that all investors are welcome in the area and would not face any administrative issues.

The current number of 25 employees is to rise in the coming period, with daily production reaching up to 200,000 liters in one shift.