Barren land expands in Albania as grain imports from Serbia rise

Albania continues to see a decline in domestic grain production, driving higher imports of wheat and corn. In 2025, the country imported more than 374,000 tonnes of grain, nearly 40,000 tonnes more than in 2024, according to local media reports.

Agricultural economist Zef Gjeta said the increase in imports is due to the lack of concrete reforms and insufficient government funding for the farming sector. Without adequate support, farmers are losing production capacity, making the country increasingly dependent on foreign supplies.

The geography of imports has also shifted, with Serbia now becoming Albania’s main grain supplier, replacing Russia and Romania. Shorter transport routes and a stronger lek helped keep import costs roughly unchanged compared with 2024, despite higher volumes.

At the same time, Albania exported 248 tonnes of grain worth about 28 million lek, nearly double the previous year’s level, though volumes remain negligible. Industry representatives note that wheat production is subsidized in most major producing countries, unlike in Albania.

Out of around 700,000 hectares of agricultural land, the area planted with grains continues to shrink, while barren land is expanding. Experts warn that without a comprehensive agricultural policy and stronger farmer support, this trend is likely to continue.

Tags: wheat, Albania