Albania’s tourism sector has seen extraordinary growth in recent years, with the country now ranking second globally and first in Europe for tourism expansion, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). In an interview with Radio Free Europe, Albania’s Minister of Tourism and Environment, Mirela Kumbaro, discussed the sector’s success and the challenges ahead as the country strives for sustainable tourism development.
Tourism in Albania has shifted from a seasonal activity to a year-round industry, spreading across nearly the entire country. Kumbaro revealed that Albania reached its 2023 target of 10 million international visitors, surpassing earlier projections. The tourism boom, she noted, is not just the result of a single year’s growth but is part of a long-term effort that dates back to 2014, when the “Urban Renaissance” program was launched. This initiative has helped transform the country’s tourism infrastructure and improved relations between the private and public sectors.
Kumbaro also highlighted Albania’s efforts to diversify tourism beyond its popular coast, with more destinations being developed across the country. This expansion, she believes, is crucial for making tourism sustainable in the long run.
In terms of economic impact, tourism revenue has surged dramatically. Kumbaro shared that Albania’s tourism earnings grew from 2.8 billion euros in 2022 to 4.2 billion euros in 2023. As Kumbaro emphasized, it’s not just about the number of visitors but also the revenue they bring, which supports local businesses and contributes to the overall economy.
The government is now looking to further formalize the tourism sector with its “Touristic Albania 2030” strategy. This plan includes fiscal reforms, improvements in the country’s tourism infrastructure, and the creation of a more cohesive approach to tourism development through regional cooperation.
A key aspect of the strategy is the expansion of public beach access. Kumbaro announced that the government aims to ensure that for every kilometer of coastline, at least 300 meters will be public beach space, addressing growing concerns about privatization of the country’s coastal areas. This initiative aims to balance public access with private investment, allowing tourists more freedom while ensuring the long-term sustainability of Albania’s beaches.
However, Kumbaro also acknowledged significant challenges that need addressing. The rapid growth in tourist numbers has placed a strain on Albania’s public transport systems, waste management, and infrastructure. Public transport, in particular, needs urgent attention to accommodate the increased flow of visitors. The Ministry of Infrastructure is working on establishing a new public transport agency to handle the surge in demand.
Waste management remains one of the biggest concerns, especially along the coast. While Albania has made improvements in cleanliness, Kumbaro stressed that this remains an ongoing challenge. To tackle the issue, the government has increased cleaning efforts, with a dedicated operation running from June to September to maintain the country’s beaches.
Looking ahead, Kumbaro remains optimistic about the future of Albania’s tourism industry. She envisions a balance between attracting high-end, elite tourists while also ensuring that the country remains accessible to a wider range of visitors.
As Albania continues to capitalize on its tourism boom, the government is committed to addressing the growing pains of this rapidly expanding sector, ensuring that the country’s tourism future is both sustainable and inclusive.
