Transformation of the Albanian payment infrastructure - Purchases through POS terminals "break the barrier" of 100 billion lek
The payment infrastructure in Albania, which includes ATMs, POS terminals, home banking and AIPS, has circulated a volume of 18.1 trillion lek during 2025. According to the latest data from the Bank of Albania, the amount of money that has passed through payment channels in one year has increased by 1.74 trillion lek or 10.7% more compared to 2024.
The increase in the volume of payments through ATMs, POS, home banking and interbank systems shows that Albanians and businesses are using less and less physical cash and are moving towards digital payment channels. This means that instead of transactions being carried out with cash, they are being carried out by card, by phone or by bank transfers.
This change makes the economy more transparent, safer, and faster, as money moves electronically and is automatically recorded in the banking system. Essentially, it is an indication that the economy is modernizing and becoming more formal.
This breakthrough has also come as a result of the expansion and improvement of the payment infrastructure in the country. Official statistics show that during 2025, 6782 new POS terminals were added in Albania, about 28% more than in 2024.
For the first time in the history of our payment system, purchases through POS terminals in stores and businesses have broken the 100 billion lek barrier, reaching a record figure of around 106 billion. This is a clear indicator of the high formalization of trade and the growth of financial culture.
On the other hand, ATMs have seen a smaller increase. Only 80 new ATMs were added last year. The 110% increase in cash deposits at ATMs (from 50 billion to around 105 billion lek) is perhaps the most interesting data of 2025. This proves that citizens are increasingly seeking independence from physical service.
An instant payment system for QR code payments in stores is also expected to be implemented soon. Together with the reduction in POS terminal fees this year, both of these will reduce costs for businesses and further encourage electronic payments.
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