November 16 (SeeNews) - Low expenditure and structural problems such as low average farm size and plot fragmentation are some of the main challenges Albania faces in the area of agriculture, the European Commission (EC) has said.
Albania has strengthened its administrative structures in order to receive financial support under the EU pre-accession assistance on rural development (IPARD), the Commission noted in a press release issued after a meeting of EU - Albania Stabilisation and Association Agreement subcommittee on agriculture and fisheries on Tuesday.
The publication of agricultural census results, the adoption of a framework law on geographical indications on organic products legislation, as well as on approximation of marketing standards for olive oil were some of the main elements of progress, according to the Commission.
Regarding food safety, veterinary and phytosanitary issues, the EU executive recommended Albania to strengthen its administrative capacity and to reinforce its official controls in all three areas.
The Commission also said that Albania needs to further align its fishery legislation with the EU acquis and ensure a consistent management of fishing and aquaculture activities in order to achieve more economic, social and employment benefits.
Albania should further implement the recommendations of the fisheries commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), make full use of the FAO AdriaMed regional project and enhance its collaboration with the EU on the Malta MedFish4Ever declaration on the sustainability of Mediterranean fisheries, the Commission said.