The impact of EU funds on the development of agriculture in Albania
In the process of Albania’s European integration, agriculture represents a strategic sector of particular importance for economic development and the improvement of living conditions in rural areas. The European Union, through its pre-accession funds, in particular the IPARD (Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance for Rural Development) program, has offered concrete opportunities for the modernization of the Albanian agricultural sector. The aim of this paper is to examine the direct and indirect impact of EU funds on increasing productivity, improving the quality and standards of production, as well as on the development of the rural economy. The paper analyzes the progress achieved through EU-supported investments in Albanian farms, including the use of modern technologies, the development of agritourism and support for the processing of agricultural products. It also highlights the challenges related to the absorption of funds, institutional capacities and the lack of information for farmers. Through this analysis, concrete measures are suggested to improve the access and efficiency of European funds in the function of sustainable rural and agricultural development.