World Bank: Albania economy to grow 3.4% driven by tourism

The World Bank projects that the economy of Albania will grow by 3.4% this year, mainly driven by tourism.

However, the institution warns that the conflict in the Middle East remains a major risk that could slow economic growth. It calls for stronger structural reforms to sustain the current momentum.

Massimiliano Paolucci, Head of the World Bank in Albania, said the country continues to show resilience. He stressed that maintaining this progress requires bold reforms. He highlighted the need to accelerate EU integration efforts, increase investment in human capital and digital infrastructure, and mobilize private capital.

The report forecasts growth of 3.4% in 2026 and 3.7% in 2027 for Albania.

The World Bank also notes improvements in unemployment and public debt levels, while identifying a shortage of skilled labor as a key challenge.

Albania’s economy continues to grow, supported mainly by services and construction, especially tourism. Inflation remains below the central bank target, while public debt decreases to 53.2% of GDP by the end of 2025. The current account balance also improves, driven by strong tourism exports.

Despite these positive trends, the report warns that Albania still faces high emigration levels. It also notes that growth in the Western Balkans is expected to remain slow due to external risks, inflation, and global uncertainty.

/a.c/

The post World Bank: Albania economy to grow 3.4% driven by tourism appeared first on RTSH English.

Original post Here

News
Letter from Washington: US and EU Square Off Over Balkan Assets

Once a field of cooperation, the Balkans is turning into a battleground for competing US and European visions and interests, says Jovana Djurovic in her latest despatch from DC. Original post Here

News
Monday Briefing from the Balkans: June 29, 2026

Catch up on the weekend’s most important developments with Balkan Insight’s digest of news from countries across the region. Original post Here

News
Australian tourist recovers after viper bite in Valbona

TIRANA, June 29 – Australian tourist Amy Lecons is in good health after a viper bit her in a remote area of the Albanian Alps, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection said. Medical teams from the Valbona Summer Health Centre responded immediately after receiving the emergency alert. They provided …