Minister of Economy and Innovation Delina Ibrahimaj spoke at the “Export On” conference, in the presence of Prime Minister Edi Rama. She presented the government’s vision to boost exports and strengthen domestic production, key pillars of Albania’s new economic development model.

Ibrahimaj noted that Albania’s economy has steadily improved in recent years, with growth in GDP, investments, employment, and wages. However, she stressed the need to transform the economic structure. The country must shift from a service- and consumption-driven economy to one based on investments, exports, and productivity growth.

She pointed out that while exports have grown, they are dominated by services. Goods exports need stronger support because they directly link to production capacity and industrialization. Therefore, a new industrial policy will be approved in 2026 to promote domestic production.

The minister highlighted the Export Promotion Program, approved last December. It rests on four pillars: awareness and promotion, simplified and digital procedures, alignment with EU standards, and financial instruments.

Moreover, Ibrahimaj praised AIDA and the Export On platform for raising business awareness. She announced that a “Made in Albania” law will be adopted this year to build and promote a national brand in line with EU standards.

She stressed the importance of digitalizing trade procedures through a single-window system and World Bank projects for trade facilitation. Soon, the government will launch a national program supporting businesses in EU integration, focusing on capacity building and funding to meet standards.

A key role will also come from the Development Bank, which will finance and modernize industry while securing exports. This will reduce costs and risks for Albanian businesses.

Finally, Ibrahimaj emphasized continuous dialogue with businesses. She assured that their concerns will inform concrete supportive policies to make Albanian companies more competitive and successful in the EU single market.

/a.c/