Economy and Innovation Minister Delina Ibrahimaj said in Parliament that the 2026 draft budget delivers on the government’s promises. It aims to raise welfare and strengthen economic stability.

First, she noted that the budget reflects progress in EU negotiations and Albania’s steady economic performance. She stressed that Albania has closed all EU negotiation chapters, which she called proof of the country’s economic transformation.

Then, Ibrahimaj highlighted key results. The economy has grown 2.5 times. Exports have tripled. Income per capita has tripled. The average salary has reached €850. Meanwhile, public debt continues to fall.

She added that revenues increased not because of higher taxes, but due to better administration and a stronger economy. Small businesses remain untaxed, while corporate tax for large companies has risen gradually.

Next, she pointed to a major element of the draft budget: a historic pension increase.

“For 2026, we plan a fund of 10 billion lek for monthly compensation, from 600 to 1,800 lek depending on pension categories,” she said. She added that by the end of the mandate the government aims to raise the urban pension to 40,000 lek, the partial urban pension to 22,000 lek, the rural pension to 18,000 lek, the family pension to 18,000 lek, and the disability pension to 30,000 lek.

Ibrahimaj also said that in 2026 the government will index salaries for the entire public administration. In addition, teachers, doctors, police, and the military will receive differentiated raises.

She emphasized that the minimum wage should reach €600 in 2028 and €700 in 2030. Moreover, the budget includes 1 billion lek in subsidies to offset higher social insurance costs for businesses.

Furthermore, she stated that the draft budget supports local production, innovation, startups, competitiveness, and youth programs.

She also noted that €66 million, in cooperation with the World Bank, will help strengthen domestic market institutions and ease trade.

Finally, Ibrahimaj said the budget is a decisive step toward EU standards and full economic integration. She invited lawmakers to vote for the draft budget and support sustainable growth.

/a.c/