Threats and Opportunities for Sustainable Development Goals of Aromatic and Medicinal Plants: A Comparative Analysis

Objective: This paper highlights trends, threats and opportunities in the export markets for Aromatic and Medicinal Plants (AMPs) in Albania and globally from 2013 to 2023. Theoretical Framework: In this paper we use interdisciplinary theoretical foundation, combining theoretical backgrounds from economics, environmental sciences, and international trade theories to analyse the threats and opportunities for Sustainable Development Goals of aromatic and medicinal plants. Method: The methodological approach implemented in this paper combines quantitative and qualitative analyses to comprehensively examine the trends and dynamics of exports of AMPs globally and in Albania. By using robust data sources and analytical techniques, the research provides empirical insights into market trends, contributing factors and potential strategies for sector improvement. Results and Discussion: Despite a 6.15% drop in quantity, the global AMPs market has seen a 14.71% increase in economic value, indicating a shift towards higher economic value. The AMPs sector in Albania faces difficulties with production capacity and market access, despite the country's rich biodiversity and potential in these resources. Research Implications: Important conclusions include the necessity of value-added processing, market diversification, and sustainable production methods to boost the industry's competitiveness. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by providing comprehensive understanding of the factors shaping global an Albanian AMPs trade and provide actionable insights for policy makers and stakeholders.