Many international investors are exploring whether foreigners can start an agricultural business in Albania given the country’s fertile land, favorable climate, and growing demand for organic and exportable agricultural products.
The answer is yes, foreigners are allowed to own and operate agricultural businesses in Albania, but there are important legal details to understand.
Land Ownership Rules
While foreign investors can fully own companies and businesses in Albania, individual foreign nationals are not allowed to directly own agricultural land in their personal name under Albanian law. To acquire agricultural land, a foreign investor must establish an Albanian-registered company, such as a Limited Liability Company (sh.p.k.), which can legally own agricultural property.
Once the company is formed, it can purchase, lease, or manage agricultural land and operate farming or agribusiness activities. This structure provides full control through corporate ownership while complying with national land laws.
Steps to Start an Agricultural Business
Foreign investors planning to start an agricultural business in Albania will need to:
– Register a company with the National Business Center (QKB), typically as a Limited Liability Company (sh.p.k.)
– Register with the tax authority and obtain a tax identification number (NIPT)
– Acquire or lease agricultural land under the company’s name
– Comply with environmental, agricultural, and zoning regulations for the intended activity
– Obtain any sector-specific permits if operating in regulated agricultural areas (such as organic certification, export licenses, or irrigation rights)
Certain agricultural activities may be eligible for subsidies or grants under Albanian or EU-funded rural development programs.
Foreign Ownership Rights
Foreigners can own 100 percent of an agricultural company in Albania without requiring a local partner. All licensing, tax, and agricultural business laws apply equally to foreign-owned and domestic companies.
The company’s ownership of agricultural land is recognized under property law, giving full legal control to the foreign investor through their company structure.
Practical Considerations
Investors should conduct due diligence on land title, zoning classification, and water rights before acquiring agricultural property. Working with local agronomists, engineers, and legal advisors ensures compliance with land use, environmental, and operational requirements.
Leasing land can be an alternative to purchasing, especially for initial pilot projects or operations in protected areas.
Foreigners can start an agricultural business in Albania by establishing a local company to own or lease agricultural land and operate farming activities. Albania’s favorable land laws for corporate ownership make it accessible for international agribusiness investors.