Albania can produce clothing for the armies of NATO member states. At a time when geopolitical developments are reshaping security priorities worldwide, the country's manufacturing sector appears to have a window of opportunity.
The clothing and footwear manufacturing industry, which has been suffering the consequences of the euro's devaluation for more than two years, is ready to enter a new phase of development, writes A2.
The Manufacturing Sector states: “Recently, as a result of geopolitical developments and the objective of NATO member states to invest around 5% of GDP in defense, interest in the production of military items (clothing and footwear) in Albania has increased significantly. With a proper strategy and cooperation with the government, Albania can become a regional hub for the production of military items.”
Furthermore, the geographical position and production capacities are indisputable advantages.
But, according to sector representatives, the true potential will only be harnessed with a clear strategy and institutional support for the establishment of an "Academy of Excellence" for the production of military clothing.
Edvin Prençe, chairman of "Proexport Albania", told A2 CNN: "Excellence is nothing more than the creation of a pole for the study, research and certification of goods. So basically, new prototypes of models will be created and realized that will be at the service of business with the aim of entering the market with new models."
This is the objective of businesses in the manufacturing sector, which want to break away from dependence on foreign contracts, and complete the entire cycle themselves, starting with production, product design, and ending with their sale.
"A lot of focus will also be placed on training existing personnel and new resources that will become part of the market. Without good training, we cannot claim transformation," added Prençe.
In a world where the production of military items is no longer just a matter of security, but also of economic development, Albania has a historic opportunity to be part of the solution. On the one hand, this approach would breathe new life into the garment sector, which is currently facing exchange rate challenges and declining demand. On the other hand, it would bring more contract security, more jobs and more added value to the economy. (A2 Televizion)
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