Kosovo`s farmers and food processors produce wonderful local products using the freshest of berries, plums, peppers, and much more. The problem for the farmers and processors is that the people of Kosovo tend to buy imported foods because of concerns about quality and sanitation. The USAID New Opportunities for Agriculture Program www.noakos.com is working to change that, in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development.

USAID and the Ministry support a nationwide campaign to educate consumers about the variety and quality of Kosovo-produced food products. The campaign got a nice shot in the arm on April 27, 2012, when Kosovo’s leading supermarket chains joined the effort. The owners agreed to install special displays in 24 supermarkets to showcase Kosovo fruit and vegetable products. The displays are an attractive advertisement for the benefits of ``buying local.``