Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Andis Salla said today in Parliament that Albania’s continued participation in the International Olive Council (IOC) directly supports the development of the olive-growing and olive oil sectors.

During the discussion of the draft law on Albania’s continued participation in the organization, Salla said Albania has been an IOC member since 2009. He added that Albania joined the 2015 International Agreement on Olive Oil and Table Olives through Law No. 112/2017.

Salla stressed that olive growing and olive oil production play an important role in Albanian agriculture. The sector has a long tradition and provides income for farmers and families involved in cultivation, processing and trade.

Meanwhile, the sector has recorded steady growth in recent years. Farmers and businesses have invested in processing technology, production and storage conditions, as well as in improving olive oil quality.

“More and more attention is focusing on quality, standardization and creating better opportunities to market Albanian products,” the minister said.

Salla also highlighted the importance of Albania’s IOC membership. The organization helps set international standards for the quality and trade of olive oil and table olives. It also develops testing and control methods and promotes the exchange of technical and economic information among member countries.

According to Salla, the draft law does not create a new international commitment for Albania. It also does not change the substance of the country’s relationship with the IOC.

Instead, the draft law accepts the IOC Members’ Council decision to amend Article 36 of the Agreement. The article regulates the duration and continuation of the agreement.

Salla said the amendment, approved on June 24, 2024, keeps the Agreement in force until December 31, 2026. It also allows successive extensions, each for a period of no more than five years.

“By approving this draft law, we ensure the continuity of Albania’s participation in the organization. We also maintain access for the Albanian sector to the standards, information, expertise and international cooperation it provides,” Salla said.

At the same time, Salla stressed that the amendment will not create additional costs for the state budget. Albania will continue to pay its existing annual membership contribution. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development will cover the contribution within its approved budget.

“Our goal is to help Albanian farmers and operators gain more from higher quality and greater value in their production. We also want Albanian olive oil to become increasingly recognized and competitive,” Salla said.

He called on MPs to support the draft law.

/a.c/