In 2025 we sold less than half of what we bought/ Foreign trade, the trade deficit reached 541 billion lek
The year 2025 has closed with a problematic performance of Albanian foreign trade, where the decline in exports and the expansion of the trade deficit seem to be the main problems. Official data show that Albania continues to sell little and buy a lot.
During 2025, exports of goods reached a value of 346 billion lek, decreasing by 6.1% compared to 2024. At the same time, imports reached 887 billion lek, with a slight decrease of 0.8% in value. At first glance, this may create the idea of stabilization, but analysis in volume, i.e. in weight, shows another side.
In quantitative terms, imports in 2025 increased by 6.2% in volume, while exports decreased by 3.7%. This means that Albania imported more goods physically, but at lower average prices, while exporting fewer goods, both in value and weight.
The decline in exports was mainly driven by traditional sectors. Construction materials and metals were hit hardest, being the main negative contributor to the annual performance. Minerals, fuels and electricity also fell, reflecting both international price fluctuations and the limits of domestic production capacities. Slight increases in food, beverages, tobacco and machinery and equipment were not enough to reverse the negative trend.
On the other hand, the structure of imports shows that the Albanian economy remains dependent on foreign countries. The increase in import volume is mainly related to consumer goods, food and energy, which means that domestic production is not able to replace domestic demand.
As a result of this performance, the trade deficit in 2025 reached 541 billion lek, an increase of 3.0% compared to 2024. The import coverage rate by exports has decreased to about 39%.
Geographically, Italy remains the main trading partner, but exports to it have fallen significantly during 2025. Decreases have also been recorded towards Kosovo and North Macedonia, signaling a weakening of traditional markets. Meanwhile, imports from China have increased significantly, strengthening its role as a major supplier of industrial and consumer goods.
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