Tirana, 18 November 2021 (TDI): The bilateral priorities in the relationship have been discussed. European Union focused on Agricultural development in Albania.
The meeting counts with the presence of Frida Krifa, Albania’s Minister for Agriculture and rural development. Luigi Soreca, European Union Ambassador for Albania discussed the bilateral relations. Hence, the EU and Albania prioritized the agenda for the meeting to discuss the issues.
European Union wants to assist Albania to use its funding completely for agricultural development. That will ensure its maximum yield production. IPRAD Program was also discussed.
IPARD Program
IPARD Program, providing the assistance through a framework. The Potential Candidate Countries can get facilitation by the IPA Council Regulation (EC) No 1085/2006. It is a rural development program.
EU amongst the largest funding Albania Agricultural sector. Albania’s agricultural sector has the allied capacity in food safety and fisheries.
Albania Agricultural Economic Profile
The total land area of Albania is 28.750 square kilometers. 24 percent is feasible for cultivation. 36 percent is forest and 15 percent is pasture or other types of land.
In 2019 Albania’s GDP from agriculture is 21 percent. The impact of the agricultural sector was on Albania’s economy is approximately up to 01billion USD.
Fruits and Olive, Orchards, Vineyards, greenhouses, and crop storage facilities and support to products in the agro-processing industry. 55million USD, budget spent in 2020 for drainage and irrigation infrastructure. This includes direct support for agricultural and livestock production expansion, food safety, and consumer protection.
Leading Sub –Sectors of Albania Agricultural
The leading sub-sectors for agricultural development are meat production, grains, cereals, animal feed, dry fruits, sugar, farmer, and food processing machinery.
Albania has massive trade opportunities in the global and European markets. That’s the reason EU support and funding can improve its available capacity. IPARD program can be a linchpin in this constructive change.
