Speaking to a group of applicants to the “MP We Want” online platform, Prime Minister Edi Rama announced that Albania’s income per capita has tripled under his government, reaching €9,300 per annum from €3,300 per annum when his Socialist Party took office.

Why is this important: Over the past two years, the government has implemented unprecedented salary increases, including a rise in minimum and average wages. As the election approaches, these increases are expected to be an important card for the Socialists as they vie for a fourth mandate.

Background: During the meeting with a group of applicants, Prime Minister Rama discussed Albania’s economic progress since 2013 when he came to power. He noted that Albania, once near the bottom in regional rankings for income per capita, now trails only Serbia and Montenegro, which have respective annual incomes of €11,600 and €11,300 per capita.

He also highlighted the growth in Albania’s minimum wage, which has risen to €400 per month from €156 per month in 2013. Additionally, the average public sector wage has increased to €900 per month, while teachers and other specific categories now earn up to €950 per month.

What’s next: Rama emphasized that while these figures are impressive, they serve as a reminder of how much more progress remains to be made. He urged continued efforts to ensure that all segments of the population, including pensioners, benefit from the country’s economic growth. He also highlighted Albania’s booming exports, which have reached €8.5 billion compared to €2.8 billion in 2013.

While the economy is undoubtedly experiencing significant growth, with sectors like tourism booming, there are concerns and complaints about the uneven distribution of wealth. Many feel that not everyone is reaping the benefits of this economic progress. Ensuring a more equitable sharing of prosperity could become an important theme in the upcoming elections, as the focus shifts toward creating inclusive growth that benefits all Albanians.