TIRANA, Feb 12 /ATA/ Consumers in Albania need higher transparency and trust in the products they use. Representatives of the EU require the alignment of the Albanian legislation with the EU standards to establish a higher benchmark on food safety but also to strengthen the standing of Albania in the global markets. 

The European Movement in Albania unveiled this new approach today in Tirana during a meeting with stakeholders, presenting an innovation in Albania for consumer protection, aligned with EU standards. 
Laszlo Arendas, Manager of the Agriculture and Rural Development Program at the EU Delegation in Tirana, emphasized that Albania is on the right track to aligning its legislation. 

“We need effective decision-making and transparency to ensure that consumers trust the products they purchase. Consumers need more information. As an EU candidate, Albania has an important role in adopting EU standards, guaranteeing that Albanian consumers receive the same protection and trust as those in the EU. Aligning its legislation with the EU will enhance Albania’s standing as a reliable partner in global trade,” stated Arendas. 

He mentioned that certain pesticides prohibited in the EU have also been banned in Albania. 
“We are also dealing with an issue related to their movement within the region. Regarding products, it is essential to prioritize informing and educating them about the correct disposal time for products that leave residue,” emphasized Arendas. 

As part of food safety, a green line was introduced during the meeting, allowing consumers to submit complaints and report any issues they encounter.  “The key component of this project is the green line for consumers. It provides a free phone number that every consumer can call, especially at a time when many public institutions or inspectorates where citizens want to file complaints lack a green line,” explained Granit Sokolaj, a food safety expert.