Albanian farmers face rising diesel costs

Agricultural producers in Albania are facing significant financial strain due to rising diesel prices, which have reached approximately 230 lek per liter. Farmers report that the cost of fuel is nearly identical to that used for luxury vehicles, making it difficult to maintain operations.

In the village of Pinet, near Tirana, livestock farmers such as Xhaferr Tabaku express that the current costs are becoming unsustainable. Tabaku, who manages 20 hectares of rented land, noted that monthly fuel expenses reach 4 million old lek, leaving very little profit margin. He highlighted a lack of distinction between fuel for personal vehicles and fuel for agricultural machinery.

Local producers are calling for government intervention to provide tax-free or excise-free diesel specifically for the agricultural sector, similar to systems used in other countries, to ensure the viability of farming and livestock activities.