SAC International

The overall objective of this project is to improve the marketing of domestically produced agricultural and food products inside and outside of Kosovo and so contribute to the overall economic development of rural areas. More specifically, the project will:

• Contribute to the development and implementation of effective agri-marketing policies and help to strengthen the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development (MAFRD) capacity in this area

• Strengthen market information services

• Improve market access for local producers, with specific attention to the different needs and opportunities of women and men in rural areas of Kosovo, by encouraging investments into, and the development of, wholesale/farmer/retail markets, post-harvest and added-value activities, farmer marketing and enterprise groups and improved linkages between farmers, traders and processors

• Enable the further uptake of certified quality assurance programmes through inspection units and in particular to ensure that buyers and consumers are properly informed regarding food products

• Encourage agri-trade across the Balkans and with the European Union and develop schemes for improved promotion of Kosovo regional brands

• Deliver training, advisory and study programmes on agri-food marketing

The project will enable farmers to gain a better understanding of market opportunities and provide them with the necessary skills and information that will enable them to market surplus production more effectively. Furthermore, it will strengthen linkages between farmers, traders and processors with greater emphasis placed on improving overall product quality, branding, promotion and involvement in regional trading forums.