Albania’s parliament has approved the 2025 budget, targeting economic growth, reduced public debt, and strategic investments in infrastructure and tourism. The budget passed with 75 votes in favor, 40 against, and 22 lawmakers abstaining.
The €8.2 billion budget is twice the size of the 2013 plan, with growth forecasted at 3.9%, driven by domestic consumption and investment. Public debt is set to fall to 55.8% of GDP, down from 56.3% in 2024, officials said.
Unemployment is projected to decline to 9.8% in 2025, from an estimated 10.2% by the end of this year. Budget revenues are forecasted at 754.6 billion leks ($6.8 billion), marking an increase of 40.6 billion leks compared to 2024. This will account for 28.8% of GDP.
Key projects include expanding the Tirana-Durrës highway, upgrading the Elbasan bypass, and urban development initiatives financed with 17.6 billion leks. Investments will also prioritize EU-linked growth plans, with public spending reaching 6.2% of GDP.
The government highlighted the importance of tourism and infrastructure upgrades in boosting economic growth, with significant allocations for water and railway projects.
