The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Anila Denaj, together with Deputy Minister Dhimo Kote and the Director of Agricultural and Rural Development Agency, Ardita Kuçi, discussed these two new financing lines with representatives of businesses and second-level banks.
Denaj stated that this financing package for small and medium-sized businesses in the agricultural sector aims to encourage investments and foster economic growth.

During the meeting, Minister Denaj highlighted that, “The Soft Loan, with a financing line of 250 million euros and an interest rate of 3.5%, coupled with the Sovereign Guarantee, reduces the interest rate to 2% and covers up to 70% of the collateral.”
“There have been 1,089 investments made since 2013, with financial support of 125 million euros provided by the government for various schemes and programs,” said Denaj.

Meanwhile, Kuçi pointed out that the Sovereign Guarantee greatly facilitates financing for farmers and businesses in the agricultural sector by covering 70% of the collateral.

She mentioned that, based on information from the banks, the first applications have already started.

Idlir Mezini, a representative of a second-level bank, said, “We support this government initiative for agriculture and will assist all businesses that seek financing through this scheme.”

Fatbardh Belba, a business representative, called this an extremely necessary initiative taken by the government to support agriculture.
Meanwhile, Muhamed Gjoni mentioned that he has a project lined up for investing in an olive oil production line, and with this financing, he will be able to achieve his goal.

Minister Denaj stressed that if we continue to support entrepreneurship through financing, the outcome will be unquestionable.

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