TIRANA, March 31 – The Albanian government approved the 2026 national support scheme for farmers, aiming to boost agricultural investment across the country.

Agriculture Minister Andis Salla said authorities designed the scheme after wide consultations with farmers. He said officials held 23 meetings across 12 regions and adjusted measures based on farmers’ needs and the allocated budget. The scheme covers investments in greenhouses, fruit trees, vineyards, livestock farms, machinery, processing lines, aquaculture, and agri-tourism.

Salla said young farmers will benefit from €10,000 grants, mainly in the livestock sector. The scheme also includes grants of around 3 million Lek for building livestock shelters and 500,000 Albanian Lek (ALL) for agricultural machinery, including milk and olive oil storage equipment. Payments for livestock will increase, with higher support for cattle, sheep, and goats, while support for beehives will double. Farmers raising pigs will receive support for the first time, with 7,000 ALL per sow and lower eligibility thresholds.

The scheme also increases support for biological pest control in greenhouses, covering 70% of costs. Authorities will support freshwater fish farming through measures for stocking inland waters. Farms larger than three hectares will receive 10,000 lek per hectare planted. Agricultural cooperation groups will receive full support, while certified organic farms will remain a priority. Officials say the scheme aims to strengthen the sector and expand sustainable agricultural production.

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