We sell fish expensively, but consume it cheaply/ Trade balance, negative. While consumption is about 8-9 kg per person per year
Albania is increasingly exporting fish products, but at the same time remains dependent on imports to supply the domestic market. The latest data highlights a clear paradox: while the industry increases its presence in foreign markets, the Albanian consumer continues to rely mainly on imported products.
According to foreign trade statistics, in 2025 Albania imported about 27 million kilograms of fish and seafood, while exports reached about 9.6 million kilograms. In quantitative terms, the country imports almost three times more than it exports. Although the difference in value is narrower, the trade balance remains negative, indicating a continued dependence on foreign markets.
However, in the long term, exports have seen significant growth. Compared to 2005, when they were under 1 million kilograms, today they have increased several times, reflecting the expansion of the sector and its orientation towards international markets.
A clear indicator of this orientation is the distribution of exports by trading partners. Italy remains the main destination for Albanian fish, absorbing the vast majority of exports with around 4.9 billion lek in 2025, much more than any other market. Spain and the United States follow, while a significant portion is also exported to countries in the region such as Kosovo, Montenegro and Serbia. The presence in more distant markets, such as Japan, Norway or South Korea, indicates a gradual expansion of the geographical reach, however the structure remains strongly focused on the Italian market.
At the same time, imports show a more dispersed supply picture. In 2025, Albania imported more fish from Italy, Greece and Spain, with values exceeding 1.2 billion lek each. Sweden and Croatia follow them, while the top ten partners also include Ecuador, China, Norway, Morocco and Argentina. This shows that the domestic market relies on a wide network of suppliers, including countries outside the region and Europe.
Another important indicator is the difference in the average import and export price. In 2025, the average import price is around 360-370 lek per kilogram, while the export price reaches around 800 lek per kilogram. This shows that Albania exports products with higher value per unit, while importing cheaper products to cover domestic demand.
Despite this trade dynamic, the increase in exports does not translate into higher domestic consumption. According to FAO data, the average fish supply in Albania remains around 8-9 kilograms per person per year, a relatively low level compared to many other countries, especially landlocked ones.
The paradox remains clear: a coastal country, with growing exports in the fish sector, but with domestic consumption that remains low and dependent on imports.
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