Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Albania
CapitalTirana
Population2.4 million
Area28,748 km² (11,100 sq mi)
LanguagesAlbanian
CurrencyAlbanian lek (L)
TimezoneUTC+01:00
RegionEurope / Southeast Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Quick Facts

GDP (nominal)($14.3 billion estimate)
GDP Per Capita($5,100 estimate)
Income Classification(Upper-Middle)
Main Industries(textiles, food processing, oil and gas)
CurrencyALL
Unemployment Rate(approximately 12%)
Ease of Doing Business(ranked 82nd globally)

Economic Overview

Albania has an upper-middle economy, with a high-income classification. The country has made significant progress in recent years, with a strong focus on development and economic growth. Albania's economy is driven by a mix of industries, including textiles, food processing, and oil and gas. The country has also made efforts to diversify its economy, with a growing focus on tourism, technology, and renewable energy. Albania's economic trajectory is positive, with a projected annual growth rate of around 4%.

Albania's economic development level is characterized by a growing service sector, which accounts for around 50% of the country's GDP. The country has also made significant investments in infrastructure, including the development of its transportation network and energy sector. However, Albania still faces challenges, including a high unemployment rate and a need for further economic diversification. The government has implemented policies aimed at promoting economic growth, including tax reforms and investments in education and training.

Albania's economy is also heavily influenced by its geographic location, with the country serving as a key transit point for trade between Europe and the Middle East. The country's proximity to major markets, including Italy and Greece, has also made it an attractive location for foreign investment. Overall, Albania's economy is characterized by a mix of traditional industries and a growing focus on modern sectors, with a strong emphasis on development and growth.

Key Industries

IndustryContributionDetails
Agriculture20% of GDPMain products include wheat, corn, and tobacco
Mining5% of GDPMain products include chromium, copper, and nickel
Manufacturing15% of GDPMain products include textiles, food processing, and construction materials
Services50% of GDPMain sectors include tourism, finance, and telecommunications
Tourism10% of GDPMain attractions include beaches, mountains, and historic sites
Energy5% of GDPMain sources include hydroelectric power, oil, and gas

Trade Profile

Top Exports:

  • Textiles: Albania is a significant producer of textiles, with a focus on clothing and footwear.
  • Food products: The country exports a range of food products, including vegetables, fruits, and meat.
  • Oil and gas: Albania has significant oil and gas reserves, with exports to countries including Italy and Greece.
  • Metals: The country exports a range of metals, including chromium, copper, and nickel.
  • Construction materials: Albania exports construction materials, including cement and steel.

Top Imports:

  • Machinery: Albania imports machinery, including equipment for the textile and food processing industries.
  • Electronics: The country imports a range of electronic products, including computers and telecommunications equipment.
  • Vehicles: Albania imports vehicles, including cars and trucks.
  • Fuel: The country imports fuel, including oil and gas.
  • Pharmaceuticals: Albania imports pharmaceutical products, including medicines and medical equipment.

Key Trading Partners:

  • Italy
  • Greece
  • China
  • Turkey
  • Kosovo

Infrastructure

  • Albania has a well-developed transportation network, including a major highway connecting the capital Tirana to the port city of Durres.
  • The country has a range of energy sources, including hydroelectric power, oil, and gas, with a focus on increasing the use of renewable energy.
  • Albania has a high level of internet penetration, with around 70% of the population having access to the internet.
  • The country has a number of major ports, including the port of Durres, which is a key transit point for trade in the region.
  • Albania has a range of airports, including the Tirana International Airport, which offers flights to destinations across Europe and beyond.

Economic Outlook

Albania's economic outlook is positive, with a projected annual growth rate of around 4%. The country is expected to continue to diversify its economy, with a growing focus on tourism, technology, and renewable energy. The government has implemented policies aimed at promoting economic growth, including tax reforms and investments in education and training. However, Albania still faces challenges, including a high unemployment rate and a need for further economic diversification.

Major projects and reforms are underway to support Albania's economic development, including the construction of a new highway connecting the capital Tirana to the port city of Vlore. The government is also investing in the development of the country's energy sector, including the construction of new renewable energy facilities. Additionally, Albania is working to improve its business environment, with a focus on reducing bureaucracy and increasing transparency. Overall, Albania's economic outlook is positive, with a strong emphasis on development and growth.

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