In the last decade, the international demand for medicinal and aromatic
plants (MAPs) has continuously increased. This development offers a
significant marketing opportunity to Kosovo. Of particular interest is
the development of the demand in Europe.
Most products are sold in a dried form. This gives them a high value
per weight unit. The market prices for MAPs vary strongly depending on
the quality of the products and their state of processing. Proper handling
of the different MAP species during harvest and post-harvest is therefore
essential to achieve good market prices.
In 2019, 855 farmers cultivated MAPs in Kosovo according to the
Assessment Report for NWFP and MAPs, whereas in 2017 only 355 farmers were counted. Within a few years, the sector has grown strongly.
In 2021, the supply chain of MAPs includes over 30 collection points and
primary processing companies.