TIRANA, Jan 26 /ATA/ – The main opposition Democratic Party lawmaker Jorida Tabaku has criticized the government over the difficulties and challenges facing Albania’s agriculture today, “describing it as one of the most discriminated against and poorly funded sectors.”
The opposition MP claimed that Albanian farmers lack support, while IPARD funding of around 120 million euros provided by the European Union has been diverted through corrupt schemes in favor of oligarchs.
“Instead of increasing domestic production, imports are surging by 20%. Albanian products cannot be sold abroad and are no longer available in supermarkets. Farmers have been abandoned by the state and are facing increased taxes, reduced subsidies and a total lack of attention from the government,” Tabaku stated
The MP called for a change to Albania’s economic model, urging increased agricultural subsidies, lower taxes, concrete support for farmers and more incentives that would help increase domestic product.
She also urged full transparency in government spending, equal distribution of public funds, and an end to clientelism and corruption.
Commenting on the new 250 million funding line focused on small and medium-sized enterprises, with agriculture as a primary area of support, Tabaku said that farmers need real support instead of bank loans.
“Farmers need real support rather than bank loans. This government must stop corruption and invest where Albanians need it most, in rural and agriculture development,” Tabaku concluded.
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