Kosovo Potato Chip Factory Fosters Unity Between Serbs and Albanians Through Agriculture

Aug 22, 2024

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in DW

In Kosovo, a local potato chip factory, VPA, has become a beacon of cooperation and success by sourcing potatoes from local farmers, including ethnic Serbs, to produce chips that are now sold across Europe, including Serbia. Founded in 2004 by the Kumi brothers and Serbian engineer Mio Simovich, VPA has grown to employ 250 people and partners with around 70 local farmers. This initiative not only supports the agricultural sector in Kosovo but also showcases how business ventures can bridge ethnic divides and improve livelihoods in the region.

The VPA potato chip factory was established in 2004 by the Kumi brothers and Serbian engineer Mio Simovich.
It has grown into a significant enterprise, employing 250 people and working with approximately 70 local farmers for potato sourcing.
Boban Restit, a local farmer and municipal worker, supplies potatoes to VPA, enhancing his family’s income and continuing their farming tradition.
Agron Hagimi, the quality manager at VPA, emphasizes the importance of potato quality over the nationality of the farmers, promoting inclusivity and cooperation.
The factory’s partnership with local farmers, including ethnic Serbs, is highlighted as a positive example of collaboration in a region with a complex history.
VPA’s products are distributed across Europe, including Serbia, marking a notable achievement in cross-border trade between Kosovo and Serbia.