Rama emphasized that these two new lines will facilitate access to finance for small and medium-sized entrepreneurs in the countryside, with the aim of increasing investments in priority sectors such as agricultural and livestock production; mechanization and innovation; agro-processing and agro-tourism infrastructure.

The prime minister emphasized that, “The soft loan through a financing line of 250 million euros and an interest rate of 3.5%, combined with the Sovereign Guarantee, cuts the interest rate to 2% and covers the collateral up to 70%”.

The prime minister emphasized that there is an ongoing need for financing of agro-tourism, while encouraging entrepreneurs to apply for the two new financing instruments.

“The Bank of Albania has made available 250 million euros designed for small and medium-sized businesses with a focus on agriculture. When it comes to the focus on agriculture, agri-tourism is one of the components, as there are also the greenhouses, livestock and agro-processing”, said Rama.

The prime minister asked entrepreneurs to also think about agro-processing in order to grow their business and enter the market with their products.

Rama singled out the products produced by some agri-tourism in the country such as the “Chestnut Hill”, “Fustanella”, or “Çobo”, while emphasizing that despite the fact that they are fantastic products, they are not yet in great amounts so that to enter the market.

“I was impressed in Switzerland where a small bottle of olive oil produced in Albania had a price 5-6 times higher than the market. It was a special product. The market demands these, so you have to be ambitious not only for the domestic market, but also for abroad. You should look for super-quality and originality. The 2% loan is fantastic with 70% of the guarantee on the collateral”, he said.

The prime minister also mentioned as an example the “Chestnut Hill” in Tropoja mountains, i.e. in remote areas of the country.

“If you have an agri-tourism business, you bring the market to your door. Chestnut Hill is an amazing destination on top of the mountains. No one would ever go there, but today you have to make a reservation,” he added. /a.f/p.s./