Tourism continues to "inspire" lending/ Significant increase in loans in the accommodation and food service sector
The tourism sector in Albania is showing vitality, reflecting increased confidence by private businesses in its long-term potential. The latest data from the Bank of Albania for July 2025 show a significant increase in new loans to the accommodation and food service sector, reaching 1.2 billion lek, an increase of 8.1% compared to July 2024.
This development is particularly significant in the context of an overall decline in loans to private non-financial corporations. This shows that, despite economic challenges, tourism remains a priority and sustainable sector for investment.
The growth of loans in this sector has been evident since 2020, when the global pandemic brought a shift in focus towards local tourism and improving hospitality infrastructure. In July 2022, loans for accommodation and food services reached 1.4 billion lek, marking a historical peak with 8.0% of total loans to non-financial corporations.
Although there was a slight decline in 2023, 2024 and especially 2025 have restored the growth rate, proving that the sector is consolidating and preparing for a new phase of development. The figure for July this year is the second highest since 2017.
The increase in loans indicates not only the expansion of accommodation capacities, but also the improvement of the quality of services. Investments in hotels, guesthouses, restaurants and other tourist structures are increasing, reflecting an increased confidence by entrepreneurs that Albania is becoming a sustainable and attractive destination for domestic and foreign visitors.
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