Economy
The big picture

€93 million for natural gas, two key projects in Albania get green light
The Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) has approved financing for two natural gas projects in Albania, with support from international donors and development banks. Why is this important: Albania, along...

Albania to centralize waste management under a national operator from 2026
The Albanian Government will send to Parliament for approval in the first week of September a draft law that transforms the current waste management agency into a state-owned joint-stock company...

Bashtova Castle reopens as modern cultural and tourism hub after EU-funded restoration
Bashtova Castle, a 15th–16th century fortress and one of Albania’s most important heritage sites, has officially reopened after an extensive restoration funded by the European Union through the €40 million...

Albania’s businesses turn to foreign workers as immigration ticks up
Albania—long a country of emigration—is beginning to see the reverse flow. Nearly 22,000 foreign nationals held Albanian residence permits in 2024, up 2.2% from 2023, as companies fill labor gaps...

Albania eases bank capital rules to boost infrastructure lending; crisis buffer held at 0.5%
The Bank of Albania has adjusted capital-adequacy rules to give second-tier banks more room to lend to large infrastructure projects—roads, ports and airports—under strict regulatory supervision. The move is designed...

Albania named a 2025 tourism success story as global travel hits records
Global tourism is having a record year—and Albania is among the ten standout destinations of 2025. UNWTO data show international visitors to Albania up 80% this year, cementing the country’s...