The credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s Global Ratings reaffirmed Albania’s long-term sovereign credit rating at “BB” on March 23, 2026. Moreover, it maintained a stable outlook. This rating reflects the agency’s continued confidence in Albania’s macroeconomic stability.

S&P highlighted that the Albanian economy has resisted repeated shocks in recent years, including the 2019 earthquake, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the energy price crisis. Therefore, the country demonstrated strong resilience under challenging circumstances.

Regarding economic growth, S&P projects real GDP growth of 3.7% in 2025 and over 3% for 2027–2029. In addition, tourism will remain a key growth driver. Consequently, service inflows generated by tourism have strengthened Albania’s external position and helped reduce the current account deficit to low single-digit levels.

On public finances, S&P expects a budget deficit of about 2.4% of GDP in 2026, slightly above the authorities’ target of 2.3% due to modestly lower growth assumptions. Meanwhile, the agency forecasts that deficits will average around 2% of GDP through 2029. Likewise, it projects that public debt will stabilize near 50% of GDP under the fiscal framework anchored in the Organic Budget Law. This prudent fiscal approach will therefore ensure sustained public finance stability.

Furthermore, S&P emphasized Albania’s progress in EU accession. The country has opened all negotiating chapters of the EU acquis, marking a major milestone in its membership talks.

Albania’s foreign reserves increased sharply to $8.7 billion in January 2026, up roughly 33% from the previous year. Strong inflows from tourism, remittances, and foreign direct investment contributed to this rise.

The banking sector remains liquid, well-capitalized, and profitable. In addition, non-performing loans fell to 3.85%, reflecting strong lending standards and robust credit growth.

Overall, S&P’s reaffirmation signals Albania’s ongoing progress and sends a positive message to international investors. Therefore, it underscores the country’s economic resilience and improved policy management.