Prime Minister Edi Rama said food safety is one of Albania’s main challenges in EU accession talks. Moreover, he spoke during a meeting with the Socialist Party parliamentary group. First, he reviewed past work and set new goals.

Rama said Albania has entered the most intensive phase of EU negotiations. Therefore, the country has only two years to meet all conditions and close the talks. He added that Albania must prepare to join a market of 450 million people. As a result, institutions and producers will face heavy challenges.

In particular, Rama stressed that food production is the main concern. This affects farmers and all food-processing businesses. Currently, Albania does not meet EU food safety standards. For this reason, the government seeks a five-year transition period after accession. However, preparations must start now.

Rama recalled the situation in 2013. At that time, roads served as food markets and slaughter sites. Since then, conditions have improved, but the country still falls short of EU standards.

He warned that after accession, unsafe food cannot be sold abroad or at home. Indeed, authorities will block products that fail to meet safety rules. In the worst case, Albania would import all food.

Finally, Rama called for strict responsibility and strong action. He concluded that Albania has up to ten years to complete this work. Above all, he described it as a major national task.

/a.c/