TIRANA, November 18 – The Bank of Albania reports a stable forex market in the third quarter. Exchange rates for the Lekë versus the euro and dollar stayed near historical averages.

Trading volumes rose sharply. Annual growth accelerated to 24.4% in Q3, up from 8.0% in H1. The increase reflects higher foreign trade and services flows.

High foreign currency supply supports the local market. The current account deficit stayed low at 4.3% of GDP in H1. Direct foreign investments covered 135% of the deficit.

The Lekë strengthened further against the U.S. dollar in Q3. USD/LEK averaged 82.7 in September, down from 85.1 in June, a 2.8% drop. Early October rates averaged 83.0, 8.2% lower than last year.

The Bank of Albania states that stable forex conditions and strong currency flows continue to support the country’s financial stability.

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