The quality and safety of medical cannabis products begin long before processing or laboratory testing. They are established at the cultivation stage through the application of modern agronomic practices, advanced technologies and scientific standards that ensure quality, traceability and sustainability. Within this context, the strategic partnership between the National Cannabis Control Agency and the Agricultural University of Tirana creates an important platform for cooperation between the regulatory authority and Albania’s leading academic institution in agriculture and biotechnology.  

The Agreement promotes collaboration in scientific research, agronomic innovation, biotechnology and knowledge transfer, supporting the development of a cultivation system based on scientific evidence and internationally recognised standards. Through joint research initiatives, modern cultivation methodologies and the exchange of expertise, the partnership contributes to the continuous improvement of agricultural practices throughout the sector.

A central objective of this cooperation is to strengthen quality assurance at the very first stage of the production chain. By integrating agronomic expertise into regulatory processes, the partnership supports cultivation practices that ensure the consistency of plant material, the responsible use of natural resources, environmental sustainability and the production of high-quality raw materials for medical and industrial purposes.

The partnership also contributes to professional capacity-building, technological innovation in agriculture and stronger links between academic research, higher education and public administration. This integrated approach encourages sustainable sector development, enhances competitiveness and aligns national practices with internationally recognised standards.

In line with the European vision for sustainable agriculture and innovation in high-value sectors, this Agreement represents a strategic investment in the development of a modern cultivation system where quality, safety, scientific research and environmental responsibility form an integral part of regulatory governance. It positions the National Cannabis Control Agency not only as a regulatory authority, but also as a catalyst for sustainable development and scientific innovation within a strategically important sector.