Albania has doubled its minimum wage, which will reach €500 at the start of next year, Minister of Economy and Innovation Delina Ibrahimaj announced in the segment “Economy Speaks with Facts.”

She addressed citizens’ comments and concerns about government economic policies.
“I’ve heard your voices — some worried, some angry, some asking fair questions,” she said. “I understand you, but please understand me too. When I talk about the economy, I talk with numbers.”

Ibrahimaj called the wage increase an important step toward improving living standards.
“The minimum wage has doubled and will reach €500 early next year. We should acknowledge this progress,” she stated.

She added that small businesses have paid no profit tax for the past five years, saving Albanian families about €170 million annually. “Why not see this as a positive step for over 110,000 businesses?” she asked.

The minister also highlighted Albania’s lowest inflation rate in the region, citing data from the Bank of Albania, the World Bank, and other international institutions.
“This means prices here have risen less than in neighboring countries. These are facts, and facts are not for fighting, but for reasoning,” she underlined.

Ibrahimaj said wages, the economy, and the budget for investment and social support, including pensions, will continue to grow as part of the 2026 draft budget.
“When we mention achievements, it’s not for applause, but for understanding what has been done and what comes next,” she concluded, emphasizing that “the economy speaks with facts and results.”

/a.c/