North Macedonia holds untapped potential to become the “Switzerland of the Balkans” if it focuses on innovation, energy, and crypto industries, according to Chris Pavlovski, CEO of video platform Rumble and founder of tech firm Kosmic Development.
In an interview with Sitel TV, Pavlovski urged Macedonian leaders to prioritize national interests over international pressures and leverage the country’s neutrality to build a strong economic model. “Switzerland successfully built its identity around neutrality, and North Macedonia can follow that example. Focus on economic development, remove barriers for citizens, and the country can thrive,” he said.
He encouraged policymakers to shift their focus toward the digital economy. “If North Macedonia becomes the first European country to embrace forward-thinking legislation on cryptocurrency, it could attract a wave of crypto firms leaving the EU,” Pavlovski said. “The world’s next great banking opportunity lies in digital finance. All it takes is the right regulatory framework.”
Pavlovski, who has family roots in the regions of Prespa and Mariovo, emphasized his emotional and economic investment in the country. “I love this country. I want to help it prosper. I’ve invested in companies here since 2011, created jobs, and continue to grow operations locally,” he noted, adding that his company Kosmic Development employs around 100 people in Bitola.
He also said Rumble is considering new infrastructure investments in North Macedonia, including a data center and energy-related projects. “We’re exploring opportunities in various sectors — there’s a lot we can build here,” Pavlovski said.
Describing Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski as “an excellent host and a person open to ideas,” Pavlovski said the two have been developing a relationship in recent years focused on innovation and growth.
Pavlovski offered advice to Macedonian citizens: “Don’t expect the government to do everything for you. Work hard for your country, and it can become a great place to live and work.”
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Pavlovski, founder and CEO of the video platform Rumble, has emerged as a key player in the conservative media ecosystem, forging strong ties with former U.S. President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio. Rumble has become the go-to platform for right-leaning voices, especially after mainstream social media began cracking down on misinformation and hate speech. Under Pavlovski’s leadership, Rumble entered into a partnership with Trump’s media company, providing streaming services and hosting infrastructure for Truth Social. Senator Vance, an early investor in Rumble via his venture capital firm Narya Capital, has championed the platform as a free-speech alternative to Big Tech.