Towards organic agriculture in emerging economies: an empirical analysis of albanian farmers’ certification intentions drivers
摘要
Many studies have investigated the adoption of environmental practices, including organic farming, in various regions. Despite policy goals to significantly increase organic farming, little research has been conducted on the factors influencing farmers' intentions to pursue organic certification in the context of an emerging economy. This study addressed this gap by identifying and analysing the determinants that shape farmers’ intentions to obtain organic certification using a structured survey of 243 farmers conducted in 2020 in Albania. The results reveal that only 6% of the surveyed farmers currently hold an organic certification, while 29% express an intention to pursue one in the future. Findings from a probit regression model indicate that younger farmers and those with formal education in agriculture are significantly more likely to plan for organic certification. Gender also plays a role, with female farmers showing a higher likelihood of intending to pursue certification. Beyond individual characteristics, farm-level variables such as the level of irrigation and the type of farming activity were found to be influential. Access to extension services and exposure to agricultural print media is found to positively affect farmers' intentions to certify organically. Additionally, farmers exhibiting a greater willingness to take risks and a stronger concern for environmental sustainability are more inclined to plan for organic certification. The high interest in organic certification and low adoption show that farmers face significant barriers, including low demand for certified organic products that could be overcome by the EU integration process and improved access to the EU markets.