TIRANA, November 21 – Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Dhimo Kote said the 2026 draft budget provides the highest financial support for agriculture in recent years.

During a review in the Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Rural Development, he noted the budget aligns with national economic goals. He added that it prioritizes the national support scheme. Approval is crucial for sector sustainability and Albania’s EU integration commitments.

Officials reported that 16.3 billion Lekë are earmarked for key programs. These aim to increase agricultural production, improve competitiveness, align standards with the EU, strengthen rural areas, boost food security, and empower women in villages.

The budget increases the national fuel scheme by 5.14 billion Lekë. In addition, a 10% VAT reimbursement for agricultural inputs lowers costs and raises farmers’ incomes. A sovereign guarantee of 3 billion Lekë encourages low-interest loans. Funding for irrigation and drainage totals 700 million Lekë, improving around 10,000 hectares of farmland. Moreover, food security receives a 12.3% boost, covering laboratories and quality control.

The fisheries sector budget rises 10% compared with 2025. This aims to increase fish product exports by up to 70% by 2027. Kote said the plan will modernize agriculture, boost production, and strengthen rural resilience while supporting EU alignment.

Policy Director Irfan Tarelli assured that all qualified farmers will receive 100% of support. Initially, the national support scheme had 3.4 billion Lekë. However, the government added funds, raising the total to 5 billion Lekë. This will cover 70,000 applicants.

He noted that disbursement will conclude by December 15, 2025. The 2026 budget introduces a digital system to speed up applicant identification, verify efficiently, and reduce field inspections. A digital centre will manage verification, modernize schemes, and simplify farmers’ access to support.

/a.p./