Economy and Innovation Minister Delina Ibrahimaj said the closure of Chapter 20 marks an important step in Albania’s European integration. The announcement came during the 10th Intergovernmental Conference between Albania and the European Union in Luxembourg on Tuesday. She said Albania had worked intensively over the past year to meet the chapter’s objectives.

Chapter 20 covers enterprise and industrial policy. It forms part of the Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth cluster. Ibrahimaj said the achievement reflects progress in reforms and opens a new phase for Albanian entrepreneurship.

Meanwhile, the government has focused on draft legislation on late payments, a review of the business development strategy, industrial policy and measures linked to the export strategy. The aim is to give Albanian companies better access to the European single market, improve financing and encourage investment in innovation and research and development.
The revised business development strategy now includes 13 measures across five main areas. These aim to raise productivity, support a greener economy, expand financing and help businesses move towards higher value-added activities.

Ibrahimaj also highlighted the need to strengthen exports through sustainable contracts with European markets and improve the business environment by developing a skilled workforce. She said the next challenge was to implement the reforms and help companies invest in technology, innovation and competitiveness.

Chapter 20 also covers measures to improve the business climate and strengthen the competitiveness of Albania’s economy. Alignment with European rules and standards can help companies prepare to operate in the single market, build confidence in their products and services, and expand export and investment opportunities.

/a.p./