Albania export growth contrasts with accusations of €1.1 billion yearly corruption losses

Albanian exports rose 16.9% in April 2026, reaching 34.9 billion lek, driven by higher shipments of minerals, fuels, electricity and automotive parts, while textiles and footwear fell 6.1% amid weaker demand and higher labor costs. Over the January‑April four‑month period, total exports grew 4.9% year‑on‑year, with the mineral‑fuel sector posting a 54% year‑on‑year increase.

Opposition leader Ilir Meta, head of the Freedom Party, claimed on social media that about €1.1 billion disappears each year from Albania due to corruption, clientelism and criminal state capture under Prime Minister Edi Rama, citing ALTAX and Transparency International reports. Meta said the alleged loss undermines salaries, pensions, health care and infrastructure, deepening poverty.

The contrasting narratives highlight a mixed economic picture: sectoral export gains coexist with political accusations of large‑scale financial misappropriation.