The first half of the year has closed with a positive performance for businesses in Albania. Official data from the Ministry of Finance show that business turnover for the period January-June 2026 increased by Lek 127 billion or 7% more than the same period in 2025, doubling compared to economic growth.

The increase in business turnover, according to the Ministry of Finance, has been supported mainly by three sectors. Trade has shown the greatest growth with 10% compared to the first six months of 2025. Construction also recorded a growth of 9%, ranking second. While services, unlike before, which were considered the main ones in turnover, have dropped to third place, with a contribution of 4%. Production results in a smaller increase, by 2%.

According to the Ministry, this performance is due to economic growth; further formalization of the economy, which means more complete reporting of declared turnover and higher domestic consumption, supported by increased income and employment.

The economic activity of businesses also followed the same path. Referring to official data, by the end of June 2026, the total number of businesses reached 148,270. Compared to a year earlier, this results in an increase of 12% in the number of businesses.

The growth rate reflects the improvement of the business climate, increased entrepreneurial confidence, and the expansion of economic activity in various sectors of the economy, mainly services and transport.

The positive performance of the economy is related to several factors, such as improved domestic consumption, administrative facilities for opening businesses, as well as increased interest in investments in certain sectors.

However, challenges remain. The sustainability of this growth will depend on geopolitical developments and fluctuations in the costs faced by businesses, which will put pressure on profits and investments. However, according to the Ministry of Finance's forecasts, the year is expected to end with economic growth of 4%.