Trade exchanges between Albania and Western Balkan countries continue to grow. However, growth rates differ across partners. Data for the first five months of 2026 show that Kosovo remains Albania’s most important regional partner. At the same time, trade also increases with Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and Serbia. In contrast, imports from Montenegro decline sharply.

During this five-month period, Albanian exports to Kosovo reach around 16.8 billion ALL. They rise by 13.9% compared to the same period last year. As a result, Kosovo confirms its position as the largest regional destination for Albanian goods.

Exports also grow strongly to Bosnia and Herzegovina by 19.1%. In addition, they increase to North Macedonia by 14.4%. Exports to Serbia rise by 7.4%, while those to Montenegro increase by 7%. Overall, these trends show a stronger presence of Albanian products in regional markets.

On the import side, the picture is more mixed. Albania increases imports from Kosovo by 13.4% and from Bosnia and Herzegovina by 4%. However, imports from Montenegro drop sharply by 37.6%, marking the largest decline in the region. Imports from North Macedonia also fall by 13.9%, while imports from Serbia decrease by 6.3%.

Overall, the data show that Albanian exports expand across the region. Meanwhile, imports concentrate more heavily on Kosovo. At the same time, supplies from several traditional Balkan partners decline. As a result, Kosovo strengthens its role as Albania’s most dynamic trade partner in the Western Balkans.