The Albanian government is set to give a boost to local wine producers by way of the EU IPARD III program which will see some 146 million euros designated for local agricultural projects and initiatives.
Minister of Agriculture Frida Krifca said that for the first time, Albanian wine producers will be able to benefit from three specific support measures. During a meeting with local wine producers this week, she said money would be available for the construction of vineyards and wineries, as well as investment in modern technology and technical assistance.
“We will enable investments in physical assets that will significantly increase quality parameters and the infrastructure of vineyards and wineries, followed by the dedication to effectively build, in collaboration with wineries, a new legal framework for wine that protects local producers.”
This framework would also formalize the sector and preserve the value of autochthonous varieties of grape.
The efforts put forward by the government, are a part of “massive efforts to promote internationally and by any means our producers and labels, as an Albanian excellence aiming at increasing the consumption of Albanian labels in the country and the increase in wine exports”.
The minister added that Albanian wine production in 2022 reached 30,000 hectoliters, 15% more than 2021. In addition, 67 winery production units were certified and registered with 20 in Durrës, 13 in Tirana, 10 in Berat and eight in Shkodër.
The export of grapes has also increased by 22% with a value of 48 million Albanian lek during 2022, Krifca added.
She also commended the participation of Albanian wine makers in international fairs which has led to awards from international professionals.
In September 2022, Albanian winemakers won 12 medals at a region’s Wine Far in Belgrade which took place under the auspices of the Open Balkan Summit.
The news was announced by Prime Minister Edi Rama who said that an international jury including various wine experts from the world’s most popular wine fairs had handed out the prizes to local producers.
Albania has a favorable climate for grape growing and it is home to several indigenous grapes including black and white Shesh, Kallmet, Vlosh, Pules, Vrnac, and Tajge.
