| Summary |
The draft law aims to sets out the general and specific rules, principles, and requirements related to official controls and other official activities, and it defines the responsibilities, financing, and procedures for carrying out official controls. Its overarching purpose is to guarantee a high level of protection for human health, animal health and welfare, and plant health, while also safeguarding the environment and consumer interests. The draft law provides a comprehensive legal framework for the performance of official controls and other official activities, which are essential to verify compliance with national legislation throughout all stages of food and feed production and distribution, including rules related to organic production, animal welfare, plant health, and geographical indications.
To achieve its objectives, the draft law establishes a harmonized and integrated system of official controls conducted by designated competent authorities. These authorities are required to be adequately resourced, trained, and supervised to ensure the effectiveness, impartiality, and consistency of controls. The draft law introduces multi-annual national control plans, which must be regularly updated and cover all relevant sectors of the agri food chain. These plans allow for a risk-based approach, ensuring that resources are focused where they are most needed.
Furthermore, the draft law foresees the use of a computerized information management system, enabling efficient exchange of data and coordination among the competent authorities and with the European Commission before day of accession. In cases of non compliance or serious risk, the regulation outlines clear enforcement mechanisms, including immediate corrective actions and sanctions.
Through these mechanisms, draft law establishes a strong and coherent system that enhances transparency, strengthens trust in the Albanian food safety and regulatory systems, and ensures that consumers across the country are equally protected.
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