Foreign trade saw a slight increase in May, with exports reaching 33 billion lek. On the other hand, imports cost 81 billion lek, deepening the deficit.
Exports of goods reached 33 billion lek during May 2026, an increase of 3% compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, compared to April, they decreased by 6%.
On the other hand, imports continued their upward trajectory, reaching 81 billion lek, or 4% more than in May 2025. As a result, the trade deficit widened to 48 billion lek, with an annual increase of 5%.
According to INSTAT indicators, the growth in exports was mainly supported by the food, beverages and tobacco sector, which made the largest positive contribution. Construction materials and metals, as well as the machinery, equipment and spare parts group, also had a significant impact.
On the other hand, the sector that continues to suffer the most remains the tailoring industry. The decline in orders from European markets and competitive difficulties continue to be reflected in the performance of this sector.
The strongest impact on the increase in imports was attributed to minerals, fuels and electricity, which contributed 3.2 percentage points. Imports of food, beverages and tobacco, as well as chemical and plastic products, also increased.
In geographical terms, Kosovo and Greece are the partners that have contributed the most to the growth of Albanian exports during May.
Meanwhile, on the import side, Italy and China lead the growth of goods entering Albania./Euronews