TIRANA, April 21 – Albania collected around 205 billion Lek in public revenues during January–March 2026, marking a 13% increase compared with the same period last year, according to preliminary data from the Ministry of Finance. Revenues and public spending both exceeded planned targets.

Tax and customs collections contributed more than 130 billion Lek. Value added tax and excise duties drove most of the increase, supported by stronger import activity and domestic consumption.

Customs revenues reached 52.9 billion Lek in the first quarter. Value added tax on imports stood at 35.3 billion Lek, while excise duties reached 14.9 billion Lek, up 2.5% year-on-year. Customs duties and mining royalty revenues also showed growth over 2025 levels.

State spending totalled around 156 billion lek during the same period, equal to 92.9% of the planned level. Social security and health insurance funds reached 48.3 billion Lek, reflecting a 10.5% annual increase in social contributions.

/a.p./