The European Commission estimates that Albania has not yet fully gained the trust of the European Union in the areas of food safety, veterinary and phytosanitary policy.
In the progress report for our country, the EC emphasizes that we have "a certain level of preparation" in these areas, but limited progress has been made during the reporting period.
According to the document, laws on animal and plant health have been adopted, but much remains to be done in terms of bringing national legislation into line with EU standards and their practical implementation.
The Commission recalls that last year's recommendations have only been partially implemented, while underlining the need for Albania to strengthen inspection structures.
"Limited progress has been made during the reporting period. The laws on Animal Health and Plant Health have been adopted. However, further efforts are needed to align the legislation of this chapter with the EU acquis and to implement it. Albania needs to implement the adopted national policy on food safety," the progress report states.
This assessment shows that, despite legal reforms, the EU continues to have reservations about Albania's ability to guarantee safe and controlled food products according to European standards.