Municipality of Krivogastani

Krivogaštani exists because the Pelagonian plain demanded vegetable cultivation at intensity possible only with concentrated labor. This municipality of 6,150 residents near Prilep demonstrates the most agricultural-dependent economy in Macedonia: 95% of the population engages in farming, producing onions, potatoes, peppers, tobacco, and grains on the fertile valley floor.

The formation era established Krivogaštani within the ancient Pelagonia that encompassed modern Bitola, Prilep, Mogila, Novaci, and Kruševo—perhaps extending into Greek territory. The continuous cultivation tradition reflects soil quality and water availability that made this plain one of the Balkans' primary agricultural zones. The Pelagonia combine remains North Macedonia's largest food producer; the Streževo water system provides the country's best irrigation infrastructure.

Today Krivogaštani represents agricultural specialization carried to near-complete economic monoculture. The 5% of population not farming likely provides services to those who do. Vegetable production dominates: onions, potatoes, and peppers for domestic markets and processing; tobacco for export; grains for local consumption and livestock feed. The municipality operates within the Pelagonia Statistical Region's 238,136 population, sharing agricultural conditions with neighboring municipalities.

By 2026, Krivogaštani faces the question of whether 95% agricultural employment represents efficient specialization or vulnerable monoculture. Climate change, market volatility, and youth migration could disrupt a social structure entirely dependent on primary production. The Streževo irrigation system provides resilience, but water availability cannot address labor force challenges if young people seek urban employment.