It's the name that sells! Domestic companies compete with foreign brands, register as "MIA"

It's the name that sells. It is not by chance that this expression has stood the test of time. If a commodity or product comes from Germany, the United States, France or Italy, for many Albanians the quality is taken for granted. However, there are also those who believe in local products in this race after foreign brands.

"I prefer local products. They are organic, but the imported ones cost more. They are a little more expensive. Anyway, it's worth it, since they are ours", say the citizens.

Albanian companies are responding to the strong competition with foreign brands by applying for the "Made in Albania" certification. The data from the General Directorate of Industrial Property show that in the last 4 years there have been 4 thousand 108 applications for trademark registration from Albanian subjects.

"Made in Albania" are all products that are produced in Albania and certified by Albanian authorities. This mainly includes greens, souvenirs, but also other packaged products. Of course, when we say MIA, no one thinks of helicopters or planes, but simple products", said teacher Zef Gjeta.

Last year alone, there were 1,165 applications for trademark registration from Albanian entities for products such as ceramic wine bottles, ecologically friendly supports for plants, cartridges for a pressed juice or smart disinfectant for hands.

The development of products produced in Albania has been designated as a priority by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development for the coming year.

"In these 30 years, we have heard politicians and governments who have expressed ambitions for the development of MIA products. They do very well. But on the other hand, they do a lot of harm as often these policies are not supported with funds. Therefore, they have no value", says teacher Zef Gjeta.

Despite the promises and strategies drawn up over the years by governments to expand local production, "Made in Albania" remains limited only to the local market of less than 2.8 million inhabitants. The expansion of tourism is seen as a golden opportunity for the promotion of Albanian products. (A2 Televizion)