Albanian strawberry growers, particularly in the Fier region, are dumping large quantities of strawberries onto the streets, unable to sell them due to a sharp drop in prices and dwindling demand.
Ever since a notification of pesticides appearing in imported Greek strawberries, after the National Food Authority (AKU) discovered 52 kilograms of contaminated products in the local market — Albanian growers note that, despite them following certified organic standards, the consumer confidence in the product is shaken, and the domestic market is severely impacted. In Frakull, Fier, farmers have protested by discarding crates of unsold produce, expressing frustration at what they feel is being unfairly penalized. "Our produce is grown safely, but consumers have been scared by news about the imports," said one grower.
© Pellumb Qosej
Mounting pressure
For many Albanian farmers, strawberry cultivation is a key seasonal livelihood. "With prices falling below production costs, including labor and transportation, continuing the harvest has become unsustainable. Several have halted operations entirely to prevent further losses", says consultant Pellumb Qosej. "They are demanding fair treatment and greater institutional support, highlighting the lack of oversight on imports and the absence of protective measures for domestic agriculture." Around Fier, approximately 250 hectares of land are cultivated with strawberries, but farmers are now facing a market collapse, worsening their struggles in an already challenging sector.
Consumer fear
Following a recall on Greek strawberries, further reports about unsafe Greek imports have undermined public trust. "As consumers grow wary, they are avoiding strawberries altogether, regardless of origin. This generalized fear has unfairly harmed local producers, despite the high safety and quality of Albanian-grown fruit."
Urgent response needed
Pellumb says the crisis reveals deep vulnerabilities in Albania's agricultural sector and market regulation. "Growers are calling for a coordinated response—from stronger import controls and public education campaigns to fair pricing mechanisms and targeted financial support. Without decisive action, thousands risk losing both their crops and their livelihoods."
Author: Pellumb Qosej, Consultant in SME Development & Export Promotion
Rr. M. Shyri, PC 1023
Tirana, Albania
+355 (0) 684656469
pqosej1@gmail.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/195689/