The European Commission raises serious concerns about food safety in Albania, highlighting shortcomings in the functioning of the National Food Authority (AKU), pesticide control, laboratory capacities and transparency of inspections. In the 2026 progress report, Brussels calls for further reforms to guarantee European standards and strengthen measures to prevent corruption.
In Chapter 12, which deals with food safety, veterinary and phytosanitary policies, the European Commission finds that Albanian legislation remains only partially aligned with that of the European Union, despite the adoption of the law on official controls in June of this year.
One of the main issues is related to the functioning of the NFA. The report calls for institutional reforms, including merging this institution with the National Veterinary and Plant Protection Authority, as well as a clearer definition of inspection responsibilities.
Brussels also highlights the need to improve data management, inspection statistics and transparency, requesting sufficient financial and administrative resources for the implementation of food controls.
Problems with laboratories and pesticide control
Another important concern relates to the laboratories that carry out the analysis of food products. According to the European Commission, official laboratories have not yet been designated in accordance with the requirements of the European regulation on official controls.
The report emphasizes that strengthening laboratory capacities, accreditation and validation of analysis methods are needed, so that control results are reliable and in line with EU standards.
Concerns are also being raised about pesticide residues in food products. The European Commission is calling for improved measures to be taken when products are found to not meet standards, as well as increased transparency and monitoring of these substances.
The problems also extend to the milk and animal feed sector. Albania needs to draft a national program to improve milk quality, while no progress has been reported on specific animal feed regulations.
EU warns of corruption risks in inspections
The report also pays special attention to the risk of corruption in inspection and certification processes, especially in the veterinary and phytosanitary sectors.
The European Commission calls for strengthening the transparency, accountability and integrity of responsible institutions, emphasizing the need for more effective measures to prevent corruption.
According to the report, Albania should continue efforts to ensure that inspections and certifications are conducted transparently and in accordance with European standards.
Shortcomings are also evident in animal traceability, disease surveillance, and capacities for early identification of veterinary risks.
Although the European Commission recognizes the progress made in aligning some laws with EU standards, the report shows that Albania still has considerable work to do to guarantee the full functioning of the food safety system.
The Brussels findings raise an issue of direct importance to citizens: how effective are state controls on food products that end up on the tables of Albanian consumers every day?
