Skopje, Macedonia, 21st November 2006 – During the press-conference announcing the construction of the new sugar refinery Studen – AGRANA d.o.o. in Brcko, BiH, the CEO of SCO Holding, Mr. Ilija Studen, announced a visit to Macedonia to the Macedonian journalists. After successfully conducted privatisation of the only edible oil company in BiH – Bimal, which competes with its products with well-known world brands thanks to its high quality and the construction commencement of Brcko sugar refinery, that has started in due time, Studen & CO Group has once again proved consistency in achieving of its business plans.

Delegation of SCO Group, led by Mr. Ilija Studen started its official visit to Republic of Macedonia with the reception of the Macedonian President, Mr. Branko Crvenkovski where the overall social and political circumstances of this country were discussed. The first working day was closed by a working session with the Government's Vice-president in charge of Economic Affairs, Mr. Zoran Stavreski. During the first working day, Mr. Kiro Gligorov, the former President of Republic of Macedonia, and doyen of political and economic circumstances in Macedonia welcomed the SCO Holding delegation.

Mr. Ilija Studen addressed the present journalists, saying: "Investigating the market and the possibilities of extending of our business Group, Republic of Macedonia is very interesting and it is our wish to enlarge our business scope to this area, whereby our economic relations would be strengthened by opening of our company in Macedonia. Today's meetings with Their Excellencies, Mr. Crvenkovski and Mr. Stavreski shows that Macedonia is open for foreign investments and accelerated development of economy. Reform of legislature, willingness for cooperation and efficiency of state institutions clearly indicate to creation of a positive economic climate that gives a strong impulse to the economic development. This represents a highly positive factor for both Studen & CO Holding and other potential investors."

The working delegation of SCO Holding will continue its visit with further meetings with Macedonian businessmen, who represent the potential future business partners for operating of this Group Macedonia.

Mr. Studen with Mr. Branko Crvenkovski, Macedonian President

Mr. Ilija Studen, Mr. Mitja Kovačič with Mr. Kiro Gligorov

 -Note to Editors-


For further detailed investing information of Studen & CO Holding visit the following web page: www.sco-group.com or contact:

Natasa Pucar, Corporate PR Manager, SCO Holding
Tel: + 387 49 233 311
Fax: + 387 49 220 585
E-mail:natasa.pucar@sco-group.com