Farmers in Albania – Quick Guide under Law No. 9817/2007

 

 

 

Agriculture remains one of the key pillars of Albania’s economy. Law No. 9817/2007 provides the legal framework regulating the rights, obligations, and support mechanisms available to farmers. Below is a practical guide outlining the essential steps and opportunities for farmers operating in Albania.

1. Official Registration: The First Essential Step

In order to access national subsidies or European Union funds, farmers must complete official registration procedures. This includes:

  • Registration in the National Register of Farmers

  • Obtaining a NIPT (tax identification number) if carrying out economic activity

  • Registration with the Agency for Agricultural and Rural Development (AZHBR)

  • Maintaining and preserving all official documentation

Without proper registration, farmers cannot benefit from public financial support schemes.

2. Eligible Agricultural Activities

Under the law, farmers may operate in various agricultural sectors, including:

  • Crop production (cereals, vegetables, fruits)

  • Livestock farming (cattle, sheep, poultry)

  • Viticulture and fruit growing

  • Beekeeping

  • Medicinal and aromatic plants

  • Primary processing activities (milk, cheese, preserves)

  • Agrotourism activities directly linked to agricultural production

This broad scope allows farmers to diversify their income sources while remaining within the legal framework.

3. Access to Funding and Subsidies

National Support Schemes

Farmers may benefit from:

  • Per-hectare or per-livestock-head subsidies

  • Contributions for greenhouses, agricultural installations, and storage facilities

EU / IPARD Funds

Through EU-supported IPARD programs, farmers can obtain:

  • Co-financing for structural investments

  • Pre-financing up to 20%, guaranteed by a bank or insurance surety

  • Investment support subject to strict documentation and compliance with contractual deadlines

IPARD funding requires precise administrative preparation and adherence to financial and legal conditions.

4. Main Rights of Farmers

Registered farmers are entitled to:

  • Access national and EU subsidies

  • Receive technical assistance and advisory services

  • Establish or join cooperatives and producer groups

  • Obtain updated information on agricultural policies and funding opportunities

5. Legal Obligations

Farmers must comply with several regulatory requirements, including:

  • Respecting tax and sanitary regulations

  • Registering livestock where applicable

  • Implementing sustainable agricultural practices

  • Preserving documentation for administrative inspections

  • Respecting funding conditions and reimbursing funds in case of violations

Failure to comply may result in financial penalties or exclusion from future programs.

6. Producer Groups and Cooperatives

The law strongly encourages the formation of cooperatives and producer groups. These structures allow farmers to:

  • Coordinate collective commercialization

  • Reduce operational costs

  • Improve access to national and international markets

  • Strengthen eligibility for public funding

Collective organization significantly enhances competitiveness and bargaining power.

7. Controls and Sanctions

Competent authorities conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance.

  • Misuse of public funds leads to mandatory reimbursement

  • False declarations may result in administrative sanctions and exclusion from support programs

Transparency and accurate record-keeping are therefore essential.

Practical Recommendations

  1. Official registration is mandatory before applying for any subsidy or funding.

  2. Keep documentation complete and updated at all times.

  3. For IPARD pre-financing, secure a bank or insurance guarantee in advance.

  4. Joining cooperatives increases funding and market access opportunities.

  5. Maintain proof of all agricultural activities and expenses for potential audits.

Conclusion

Law No. 9817/2007 provides Albanian farmers with structured access to national and EU support mechanisms, while also imposing clear legal obligations. Proper registration, compliance, and strategic cooperation are the key elements for sustainable agricultural development and long-term growth in Albania.