Textile and construction exports drop, while oil sales rise
Albania’s exports fell by 28% in the first two months of 2025, except for oil, which grew by 64%, according to INSTAT. Many factories have shut down, hit by rising costs, weak demand, and shifting markets.
Textile and footwear industry hit hard
The textile and footwear sector, Albania’s largest exporter (30% of total exports), shrank by 5.5%. Many small factories have closed, as higher costs and a weak euro push foreign buyers elsewhere.
Construction materials and metals see sharp decline
Exports of construction materials and metals dropped 34% in February alone, affected by low regional demand and falling steel prices.
Oil and energy exports keep growing
Oil and energy now make up 59% of Albania’s total exports, led by Bankers Petroleum and energy trading. However, the sector depends on global oil prices and weather conditions.
Trade deficit shrinks, but concerns remain
Albania’s trade deficit in February was 34 billion leks, down 18.6% from last year. Meanwhile, imports rose by 4.7%, mostly in food, fuel, and chemicals.
