Projects

EU Information Relay for Businesses in Albania

The European Community, represented by the European Commission and acting on behalf of the Government of Albania, selected the Foreign Investors Association of Albania (FIAA) to implement a strategic project: the establishment of an EU Information Business Relay in Albania. This initiative aimed to strengthen awareness and understanding of the European Union and the integration process among Albanian businesses.

In 2012, DG Enlargement defined a communication strategy to enhance the visibility of the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) and foster a positive perception of EU support. The project focused on bridging the gap between EU-funded initiatives and their tangible benefits, particularly for the private sector.

Main objectives of the project:

  • Supporting the Delegation’s efforts to inform Albanian businesses about EU policies, structures, and integration processes.
  • Providing technical information on EU market access, including customs, tariffs, environmental standards, food safety legislation, certification, intellectual property, and statistical data.
  • Building capacity through seminars, workshops, and public events.
  • Promoting EU–Albania cooperation programs and encouraging cross-border business collaboration.

Key Activities and Deliverables of the project:

  • Establishment of 5 EU Info-Points, located in the Tirana (FIAA), Durres, Lezha, Fieri, and Gjirokastra Chambers of Commerce, offering free online access and staffed assistance in Albanian.
  • Organization of 5 regional seminars/workshops: Focused on doing business with the EU.
  • Launch of a dedicated website: Active for 5 years, serving as a central hub for EU-related business information.
  • Production of two informative brochures/leaflets: Tailored for local businesses.
  • Creation of a business library: Featuring EU Single Market documentation, publications, and resources.

Impact and Outcomes:

  • Increased knowledge among Albanian businesses about EU institutions, policies, and integration priorities.
  • Enhanced visibility of the EU in Albania and improved understanding of export procedures and market requirements.
  • Strengthened role of the business community in the EU accession process through active participation and informed engagement.
  • The EU Information Relay became a key entry point for trade-related inquiries and a vital resource for maintaining export competitiveness.

Target Groups

  • Chambers of Commerce
  • Business organizations
  • Local business communities across Albania

Contextual Drivers

  • Stable annual financial assistance from the EU via IPA
  • Strong political commitment to EU integration from the Albanian Government and democratic parties
  • High public interest in the EU agenda, particularly among the business community

The project successfully addressed the information gap between EU structures and Albanian businesses, fostering a more informed, engaged, and pro-European business environment. By tailoring communication to the needs and perceptions of entrepreneurs, the initiative helped positioning the private sector as a key stakeholder in Albania’s EU integration journey. The project’s implementation period was December 2013 – July 2014.