The Minister of Economy and Innovation, Delina Ibrahimaj, stated on Tuesday that "the Albanian economy grew by 3.61% in the second quarter of the year - a performance in line with the average quarterly growth the economy has seen in recent years, specifically throughout the post-pandemic period."

During a press conference regarding economic indicators for the January–August period, Ibrahimaj emphasized that "data show we have experienced steady growth and a further consolidation of macroeconomic stability."

Minister Ibrahimaj stated that "all sub-sectors within trade, transport, and accommodation showed growth in the second quarter of the year, reflecting positive performance not only for these sectors individually but also - specifically regarding trade - positive results in both wholesale and retail. This indicates healthy activity in the sector and points to rising consumption among Albanian households."

Furthermore, Ibrahimaj noted that transport and accommodation were linked to the tourism sector. Both sub-sectors performed well, showing increased tourism demand - a trend further supported by other indirect tourism-related figures.

Ibrahimaj added that foreign direct investment in the first half of this year was over 50% higher than in the same period last year, while the total investment stock grew by 15.3%. According to her, another indicator of economic stability is foreign currency reserves.

Responding to questions from journalists, Ibrahimaj stated today that the "Price Dashboard" platform is in the final stages of preparation and is expected to become operational during the first ten days of October.

She also added that amendments to the housing law are expected to be approved by the government by mid-October, with the aim of opening calls for housing programs within November following parliamentary approval.

Addressing inquiries from journalists regarding the impact of currency depreciation on inflation trends, Ibrahimaj noted that the devaluation of the Euro in the local market - or the strengthening of the Lek - has undoubtedly played a role in this regard. "However, our analysis shows that imported inflation has been declining in recent months, and it undoubtedly accounts for a significant share of the country's total inflation," the minister emphasized.

"Throughout the months of 2026, we have maintained controlled inflation. It remains under control, albeit slightly above the Bank of Albania's target." "However, compared to other countries, the situation here has been stable and controlled," said Ibrahimaj.

In response to another question, she stated that the strengthening of the lek against the euro does not constitute grounds for lowering the toll on the Milot-Morina highway, also known as the Nation's Road. Ibrahimaj noted that the toll is stipulated in the concession agreement, while the concession's operating costs are denominated in lek and do not depend directly on the exchange rate.