TIRANA, Aug 7 /ATA/ Aromatic and medicinal herbs remain one of the most important sectors contributing to Albania’s agricultural production and exports. To support further growth in the sector, the government is expanding financial assistance programs for farmers and agricultural enterprises.
Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Andis Salla visited the farm of Alban Shuli in Cërrik, a business that has developed an integrated production chain, from cultivation to processing and packaging. The enterprise specializes in aromatic and medicinal plants, particularly mountain tea and oregano, as well as greenhouse farming.
During the visit, it was noted that the farm, which has been operating for around eight years, has continuously expanded its activity, strengthening its market presence and increasing the value of Albanian agricultural products.
Investments made through the 2025 Investment Scheme have focused on boosting production capacity and modernizing processing technology, with the aim of enhancing the competitiveness of “Made in Albania” products.
Farmer Alban Shuli’s Cërrik-based farm, which cultivates oregano and mountain tea across 3.5 hectares, has expanded its operations and increased production capacity through investment support. The oregano crop, now in its second year, is expected to be harvested in August, with most production aimed at export markets.
Shuli said he has applied to the Agency for Agricultural and Rural Development’s Sovereign Guarantee program and expects to finalize an agreement with a bank to finance the planned investment, describing the scheme as meaningful support.
For his part, Minister Salla emphasized that the government’s new financial instruments are designed to improve farmers’ access to credit and encourage greater investment in agriculture.
“With the Sovereign Guarantee, the government covers between 50% and 70% of the collateral, making it easier for agricultural and agro-processing businesses to secure financing,” the minister said.
Salla also highlighted that the measure providing a 10% VAT reimbursement on tax invoices represents significant support for farmers, while the “Double Your Enterprise” program creates new financing opportunities for businesses.
He noted that, for the first time, the scheme will extend beyond agriculture to include small and medium-sized enterprises, offering greater support for business expansion, investment, and improved competitiveness.
Salla said that “the expansion of financial instruments and support for investments in the agri-food sector aim to increase the added value of Albanian products, strengthen exports, and create greater development opportunities for farmers and businesses in rural areas.”
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