Farm subsidies shift towards EU rules

Farmers will need at least three hectares of planted land to apply for crop support under Albania’s 2026 national farm scheme.

Officials say the rule is meant to bring subsidy payments closer to European Union standards.

The type of crop will no longer decide whether a farmer can apply.

Farmers must show that the land is planted and provide ownership papers or registered rental contracts.

Officials say farmers who do not meet the land requirement should join with others through agricultural cooperatives.

The change is part of Albania’s effort to prepare its farm support system for EU membership.