WT/TPR/M/449  
19 February  2024 
(24-1411) Page: 1/31 
Trade Policy Review Body   
22 and 24 November 2023  
  
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
ALBANIA  
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF ALBANIA  ................................ ..... 3 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  8 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  11 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF ALBANIA AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ........  23 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  29 
7  ADOPTION OF TPRB'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2023  ................................ .....................  30 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided by Albania  
are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 449/Add.1  and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The third Trade Policy Review of Albania was held on 22 and 24  November  2023. The 
Chairperson, H.E.  Mr Saqer  Abdullah  Almoqbel  (Kingdom  of Saudi  Arabia), welcomed the delegation 
of Albania, headed by H.E.  Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy; 
H.E. Ambassador Vasilika  Hysi, Permanent Representative of Albania to the WTO ; the rest of the 
delegation; and the dis cussant, H.E.  Mr Sabri Bachtobji (Tunisia).  
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefited 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Membership.  
1.3.  The Chairperson reminded  Members that, as indicated in the airgram for the meeting 
(WTO/AIR/TPR/154 , distributed on 18  October  2023), the TPRB would be invited to adopt its Annual 
Report for 2023 (document WT/TPR/W/234 ) at the end of the second day  of the meeting . This 
document was distributed on 23  October  2023.  
1.4.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The Report by Albania is contained in document WT/TPR/G/449 , and that of the WTO 
Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/449 . 
1.5.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Singapore, Japan, the United  Kingdom, Brazil, the United  States, China, Ukraine, and the 
European  Union.  The following delegations submitted written questions after the deadline: Argentina 
and Türkiye . 
1.6.  At the time of the last review meeting held in 2016, Members congratulated Albania for its 
continued economic growth and its economic reforms including the reduction of trade barriers, 
privatization of state -owned enterprises, and steps taken to improve its trade  and investment 
policies. In contrast , they noted its relatively high unemployment rate and the non -performing loans  
as the mains challenges of Albanian economic performance.  Some Members urged Albania to 
undertake further structural reforms, to diversify its economy  and to improve its investment climate.  
1.7.  While acknowledging certain progress made regarding the trade regime at the time of the 
previous Review, Members also expre ssed concerns about various issues such as the time required 
for customs clearance, some applied MFN tariff rates exceeding the bound rates, the use of sanitary 
and phytosanitary measures and food standards, and the transparency and predictability of the 
investment regime. Th e meeting was a chance for Members to hear more from Albania about the 
progress made regarding some of these issues.  
1.8.  The advance written questions covered a wide array of issues, including women's economic 
empowerment; participation in international value chains; the investment regime;  
e-government; the publication of laws and regulations; trade facilitation; some applied MFN tariffs  
rates; incentives such as free economic zones or state aid; SPS  and TBT measures; government 
procurement ; intellectual property rights; agricultural policies; renewable energy; and transport 
services.  
1.9.  Albania received 104 advance written questions from nine Members for the current Review, out 
of which 80  questions from eight  Members were sent within the dead line. Prior to the meeting, 
Albania  already provided written replies to nearly all of the questions submitted within and after the 
deadline.  The Chairperson drew Member's attention to the fact that while Albania had gratefully 
agreed to use the TPR Questio n and Answer online system for the current Review following the 
discussions during the 7th appraisal, no Member made use of the system and all advance written 
questions were submitted by email.  
1.10.   The meeting provided a good opportunity for Members to discuss  issues of interest to them 
in detail and of importance to the multilateral trading system. The Chairperson looked forward to a 
fruitful exchange.  
1.11.   The Chairperson closed his introductory remarks by wishing Albania a very successful third 
Trade Policy Revie w. WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF ALBANIA 
(H.E. MR ENDRIT  YZEIRAJ ) 
2.1.  I am very pleased to represent Albania in its third Trade Policy Review. Today 's meeting 
represents an excellent opportunity to present Albania's progress and share with you challenges and 
goals towards a sustainable development of the country. Albanian trade policy is  inspired by WTO 
principles and rules and follows the dynamics of WTO structures. The trade policy  objectives are 
motivated by the national economic needs and pr ivate sector developments while  fully complying 
with international obligations in the field.  
2.2.  Albania fully supports an open, non -discriminatory, and rules -based multilateral global trading 
system. According to the assessment of Heritage Foundation in the E conomic Freedom report 
for 2023,  its overall score is  above the world average confirming the liberal trade regime Albania 
has. 
2.3.  Since its WTO membership in 2000, Albania implemented the obligations derived by the 
commitment undertaken in its membership and has been active at co -sponsoring different WTO 
initiatives. Albania has adhered at the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and accepted 
schedule  CXLVI of the expansion of the list of information technology agreement. The WTO Joint 
Statement Initiative on Serv ice Domestic Regulation was approved by the Albanian parliament. 
The WTO Agreement on Subsidies in Fishing was ratified by Parliament and the acceptance document 
was submitted in the preparatory meeting for the MC13, held on 23  October  2023, in Geneva. 
Albania has cosponsored different WTO initiatives such as: MSMEs, structured discussions on 
investment for development, on electronic commerce, trade and health, trade and sustainable 
environment, informal dialogue on plastics pollution and environmentally su stainable plastics trade, 
and on service domestic regulation.  
2.4.  Albania is speeding up the process of accession to GPA. Albania submitted the Checklist at WTO 
Secretariat, on 27  July 2023. The negotiation group is working in preparing the Initial Offer for 
Market Access for the GPA Accession.  
2.5.  The Albanian Government started the EU  accession negotiations with the European  Union on 
19 July 2022, through the first EU -Albania intergovernmental conference. The screening process was 
officially launched on the same day, and on 15  September  2022. The screening is based on the new 
methodology of accession made up of six clusters. Negotiations will be finalized by November  2023. 
The explanatory and bilateral meetings were held in line with the original schedule. Public 
administration officials provided clear plans for future alignment of the acquis and Albania has 
committed itself to fulfil all the obligations for EU integration.  
2.6.  Albania implements free trade agreements with European  Union, the Western Balkans and the 
Republic  of Moldova  through CEFTA,  Türkiye, EFTA, and, after its exit from the EU, with the 
United  Kingdom. Albanian Trade Policy has followed a liberal  approach in policy making, focusing 
more on trade facilitation than tariff reductions. Currently, Alban ia is very actively contributing to 
the regional trade facilitation and connectivity agenda as part of the Berlin process.  
2.7.  Over 95% of Albania's total trade volume is with trade partners with which the country has 
FTAs. Exports of goods increased significa ntly during the 2016 -22 period. The European  Union by 
far our main trade partner. In 2022, 73.4% of total exports went towards EU markets and 51.6% of 
total imports came from EU.  
2.8.  Trade data indicates that the textile and shoe industry dominated exports in 2022, while the 
import of transport machinery and equipment played a significant role. Chemical and plastic products 
experienced substantial export growth, while construction materials and metals showed significant 
import growth. The trade relationship wit h Italy proved to be crucial for both exports and imports, 
followed by other countries such as Kosovo, Germany, China, Türkiye, and Greece, which displayed 
varying import trends during the analysed period.  
2.9.  From the last Trade Policy Review in 2016, Albania  has followed a liberal approach in policy 
making, focusing more on trade facilitation than tariff reductions. The import tariffs applied by 
Albania are low, with a maximum of 15%, with approximately 50.8% of all tariff lines having MFN 
rate at 0% and 16.8  % of all tariff lines having MFN rate at 2%. The website of the customs  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  administration contains MFN and preferential tariffs for all products. Significant trade facilitations 
are done regarding customs procedures, bringing the degree of approximation of A lbanian customs 
legislation to the steps of the EU, and reducing time and costs for the business operators. Albania 
has in place a sound legal frame regarding AEO. There are 11  companies to which AEO status is 
granted and 20  applications are submitted to c ustoms administration. Customs Administration is 
paperless since  2018.  
2.10.   In the area of trade in goods progress is noted. Trade in agriculture products is supported by 
consistent programmes of agriculture policies, in compliance with the  Strategy of Agricult ure, rural 
development and fishing 2021 -2027. In the strategy, clear policies and objectives have been 
defined, as well as concrete measures on three main policy areas: (a) sustainable development of 
agriculture and rural areas; (b) sustainable development  of fisheries and the blue economy and 
(c) development of administrative and institutional capacities, cooperation of actors, innovation and 
digitalization. Cross -cutting objectives of this strategy are strengthening of institutional and 
administrative cap acities towards alignment with EU  acquis  communautaire and transfer of 
knowledge and innovation in agriculture and rural areas.  
2.11.   International trade in services has  recorded a positive balance or surplus for three consecutive 
years (2016 -19). A decrease was  noted in 2020 due to the pandemic situation of COVID -19. Exports 
of services represent approximately 20% of GDP, whereas the average share of imports of services 
to GDP in the period 2016 -22 was close to 12%. In 2017, on the exports side, manufacturing se rvices 
on physical inputs owned by others made up about 12% of total export receipts, travel services 
around 60%, transport services 8% and other services around 21%. On the imports side, travel 
services accounted for about 73% of expenditures, transport s ervices for 11% and other services 
for 16% of total services imports.  
2.12.   Albanian macroeconomic stability has significantly improved over the last decade, and its 
economy showed resilience against the impact of external shocks, the latest being the earthquake 
in 2019, the COVID -19 pandemic 2020 -21 and the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine 
since 2022. The economy recovered rapidly in 2021, with real GDP growth of 8.9% and 4.86% in 
2022. The expected growth for 2023 is 3.7% with the objective t o go at 3.8% and 3.9% respectively 
in 2024 -25. 
2.13.   Over the 2016 -22 period, Albania's real GDP growth averaged 3.4%. A period of low growth 
between  2012 and 2016 was followed by an economic upturn in 2017 and 2018, when growth at 
times reached the 4% level. A drought and a major earthquake slowed economic growth in 2019 to 
2.09%, followed by a 3.3% contraction in 2020 in the wake of the COVID -19. The economy 
recovered rapidly in 2021, with real GDP growth of 8.9% and 4.86% in 2022. The recovery of 
demand has be en rapid and output already reached the pre -earthquake and pre -pandemic  level 
since 2021.  
2.14.   The labour market also improved, with unemployment rate decreasing to 10.8% by the last 
quarter of 2022.  
2.15.   As of May  2023, the credit stock recorded an increase of 2.2%  compared with May  2022. The 
credit stock in domestic currency increased by 4.7%, while in foreign currency decreased by 0.2%. 
The low growth reflects the high interest rates environment, both internally and externally, due to 
high inflation rates and macr oeconomic interventions for its management.  
2.16.   Monetary policy managed to maintain an average CPI inflation of 3% over the medium term. 
The exchange rate remained fully flexible and determined entirely by market forces. This regime 
complements our price stability objective and supports our operational framework for monetary 
policy.  
2.17.   During the review period, the main structural reforms undertaken by the Government of 
Albania consist in, among others, reforms in the energy sector, digitalization, anticorrup tion, justice 
system and tourism sector. Other important reforms were undertaken in the areas of customs, anti -
informality, or government procurement. Transparency of public authorities, digitalization of the 
public services at of 95% of the total, improve ment of the e -procurement system and functionalities, 
strengthening the integrity of central public institutions by adopting of integrity plans, enforcing of 
the cooperation of the criminal procedures of the corruption investigation, raising of the awarene ss WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  and education against corruption are main field of a successful reform against corruption through 
the years. Fight against informality has continued through introducing IT system and digitalization.  
2.18.   The fight against corruption has been largely addresse d by the Cross -cutting Strategy Against 
Corruption,  2015-2023. Significant progress was made in combating corruption through a 
comprehensive and multifaceted approach. There are positive achievements in the preventive, 
punitive, and awareness -raising strat egies for implementing anti -corruption measures, while the 
Ministry of Justice conducts regularly monitoring of the compliance of the current strategy against 
corruption and action plan. Significant progress was made in combating corruption through a 
compr ehensive and multifaceted approach.  
2.19.   In 2016, as part of the judicial reform and other legislative changes such as the adoption of 
eight key laws, the Constitution was amended to restructure the judicial system and increase its 
independence and efficiency. Inter alia, the reforms modified the functioning of the Constitutional 
Court, the High Court, the Prosecutor General to ensure their independence and integrity, and 
established new institutions for the self -governing of the judiciary such as the High Judic ial Council, 
a High Prosecutorial Council, and the Justice Appointment Council which all started to operate 
in 2019.  
2.20.   In the 2016 -22 period, fiscal policies undertaken by the Albanian Government aimed to 
increase tax revenues as a share of GDP. Tax policies  also aimed at incentivizing sectors, industries 
and business groups, which impact the country's competitiveness and economic growth. This was 
achieved while increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the tax system through improvements 
in tax and cust oms administration and designing an integrated, neutral, stimulating and simple tax 
system, making it possible to reduce compliance costs and administration costs.  
2.21.   The reforms against informality have continued to be a priority for Albanian Government. 
Fiscalism reform undertaken by tax administration in 2020, is considered a major one, that has 
impacted the reduction of unfair competition by eliminating the fictitious invoices issued by the old 
tax blocs. It has simplified the way of invoicing, reduced tax  compliance costs while providing a 
qualitative and quantitative basis of data for the tax administration in real time. Tax online services 
have created the opportunity for taxpayers and individuals to receive the requested service, saving 
time, human reso urces, and administrative costs. Currently, 100% of tax services and declarations 
are online.  
2.22.   The initiation of the fiscalization process for tax invoicing marks a significant advancement, 
encompassing fiscali zed invoices between businesses and the state, as well as business -to-business 
and business -to-citizen invoices. This transformation contributes to a reduction in overall business 
costs. In line with the Government's objective to swiftly deliver administrative documents in 
real-time, the official accep tance of the electronic seal began in 2017. This milestone facilitated the 
online generation of documents, endowed with an institutional electronic seal that holds identical 
legal standing as traditional paper documents.  
2.23.   Regarding plans to diversify the ec onomic structure, the main structural reforms undertaken 
by Government of Albania consist in, among others, reforms in the energy sector, digitalization, 
anticorruption, justice system and the tourism sector. Other important reforms were undertaken in 
the areas of customs, taxation or improving government procurement. Policies in Albania continue 
to be guided by the objective of becoming a European  Union member State. The National Strategy 
for Development and European Integration 2022 -2030 was approved in February  2023.  
2.24.   Energy in Albania is produced 100% from renewables (99% by HPP -s and 1% by PV), 
representing one of the highest renewable energy shares in the energy mix among the countries the 
world. Several measures have been taken towards inc reasing energy security through the promotion 
of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency improvement. The energy efficiency sector in 
Albania is regulated by the two important laws: the law "On energy efficiency" and the law 
"On Energy Performance i n Buildings". The law "On energy efficiency", as amended in 2021, is 
mainly in line with Directive  2012/27/EU.  
2.25.   Since the last Trade Policy Review, the digital revolution of public services in Albania has taken 
hold. Albania has taken important steps toward s fast and broad developments in digital service 
platforms, offering a wide -range and modern e -services, available to citizens and businesses. WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  E-Albania, the national e -Gov portal acts as a front -end point for government institutions to deliver 
their servi ces, thus operating as a one stop single access point to citizens and businesses  24/7.  
2.26.   Starting from 2020, the National Business Centre (NBC) has continuously cooperated with the 
National Agency for Information Society (AKSHI) for the provision of its serv ices in the field of 
business registration and licensing, as well as the registration of beneficial owners online through 
the e-Albania government portal. Starting from 1  May 2022, all the services of the NBC are offered  
online through the government porta l e-Albania, with simple procedures, within short deadlines and 
at no cost to the business.  
2.27.   Public consultation for the strategies and laws are conducted through the e -consultation portal 
(Electronic Registry for Public Notice and Consultation) was approve d in January  2021. There are 
870 stakeholders registered in the  portal that receive automatic notification for public consultation.  
2.28.   Albania has undertaken several reforms in improving business environment and  
competitiveness of Albanian economy through th e Business and Investment Development Strategy 
2021-2027 was adopted in August  2021.  
2.29.   This new Strategy constitutes the main orientation of the Albanian Government for 
medium -term economic  development, focusing mainly on the development of micro, small and 
medium enterprises, and  investments. The three main objectives of the Strategy are: investment 
attraction and internationalization; SME development, entrepreneurship and innovation and human 
capital development.  
2.30.   Since 2016, the Albanian Investment Developm ent Agency (AIDA) focuses on attracting 
high-level investment and strengthening communication with businesses and other stakeholders 
through the provision of after -care services. AIDA has had a proactive role in the approach of foreign 
and local investors present in Albania. Since 2016, AIDA has institutionalized the cooperation with 
11 municipalities and organized a total of 125  meetings in businesses of different sectors, including 
21 meetings during the first six months of 2023.  
2.31.   In the reporting period, investments have focused often on tourism, which has become one 
of the main contributors to the Albanian economic development. According to the World Travel and 
Tourism Council, during 2021, tourism sector recorded a total contribution of USD  3,092.7  million, 
accounting for about 17.4% of GDP. In terms of employment, the total contribution of travel and 
tourism for the same period was 226,100  jobs or 20% of total employment. In accordance with the 
policy and legal framework of the sector and with the aim of  supporting and encouraging foreign 
investments on the one hand, as well as promoting and developing quality accommodation services 
through the presence of international accommodation brands on the other hand, a series of legal 
changes for the creation and  provision of fiscal incentives, have been undertaken.  
2.32.   During the reporting period, solid progress is noted in the area of technical regulations. 
Sixteen technical rules have been transposed in the field of new approach. The Market Surveillance 
Inspectorat e as a new structure has been established and is responsible for the enforcement of 
product legislation, intellectual property rights and tourism legislation. In the area of accreditation, 
the General Directorate of Accreditation (DPA) is the sole accredit ation body in Albania which 
performs the accreditation to conformity assessment bodies in mandatory and voluntary areas. 
In 2016, the number of accredited conformity assessment bodies was 42, while currently, there are 
111 accredited  bodies (50  testing  laboratories, 5  medical  laboratory, 1  calibration  laboratory, 
8 management system certification bodies, 15  personnel certification bodies and 32  inspection 
bodies).  
2.33.   The aim of the Albanian Government in the field of intellectual property rights (IP) is to 
stimulate economic, scientific, and cultural development in the country, to ensure the proper 
functioning of the  internal market by establishing the right balance between the rights of the owners 
of intellectual property objects and interests of users as well  as strengthen the system of registration 
of IP objects.  The main policy document on IPR is the National Strategy of Intellectual Property 
(NSIP). This strategy covers a five -year period. Since last Policy Review it has been implemented all 
the objectives set at the NSIP  2016-2020. A new strategy is under implementation now.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  2.34.   It has been a great pleasure for Albania and public institutions involved to enter the third 
Trade Policy for Albania. We are convinced that the review provides a good opportunity for Albania 
to improve and focus on main priority areas for development, while complying with all international 
commitments in trade.  
2.35.   Albania Government remains committed to play an active role within WTO structures and give 
priority to the dis cussions contributing to growth, prosperity, and competitiveness of Albania.  
2.36.   By concluding, I would like to thank H.E.  Mr Saqer  Almoqbel ( Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia) for 
his excellent chairing of the sessions for the third Trade Policy Review of Albania, our discussant, 
H.E. Mr Sabri Bachtobji (Tunisia) and the WTO Secretariat for its excellent work in preparing the 
Report and putting together all presented today.  
  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  I would like to begin by welcoming the distinguished delegation of Albania, led by 
Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy,  H.E. Ms Vasilika  Hysi – who recently 
joined the diplomatic community of Geneva – and members of the Permanent Mission of Albania to 
their country's third Trade Policy Review.  
3.2.  Allow me also to commend the staff members of the WTO  Secretariat who provided me with 
all the assistance needed to duly prepare for this very important exercise.  
3.3.  Let me take this opportunity to express my honour and pleasure to be the discussant for a 
country w ith a history spanning thousands of years, and with a rich and diverse culture which, like 
my country, has been greatly influenced by, among other things, its Mediterranean location.  
3.4.  Before discussing some specific aspects of Albania's economic situation and trade policy, I 
intend, for methodological reasons, to place these considerations within the broader economic and 
trade context. The second part will then focus on the latest developments and key areas of Albania's 
trade policy since its prev ious Trade Policy Review in 2016 . 
3.5.  Albania's macroeconomic stability has improved significantly over the last decade, and its 
economy has shown remarkable stability and resilience against the impact of exogenous shocks, the 
most recent being the 2019 earthq uake, the COVID -19 pandemic in 2020 -21 and the war in Ukraine, 
ongoing since  2022. The inflation rate in July  2023 was 4.2%, the lowest in the region, which helped 
Albania to contain the adverse effects of these shocks on household purchasing power and tig hter 
of financial conditions.  
3.6.  Inflation is expected to come down to 3%, the target set by the Bank of Albania, by mid -2024. 
It would be very interesting to see this trend confirmed, and we look forward to comments from the 
Albanian delegation on this outlo ok. 
3.7.  The Albanian economy also experienced a strong recovery in 2021, with real GDP growth of 
8.9%, and 4.86% in 2022. The main drivers of growth were exports, private consumption and 
investments, fuelled by higher employment and income levels.  
3.8.  It is clear that accession to the European Union remains one of the strategic objectives of the 
Albanian Government. This objective depends on the full implementation of the Stabilization and 
Association Agreement (SAA) and meeting the Copenhagen criteria, which the A lbanian authorities 
are working to achieve.  
3.9.  In this connection, the Albanian Government opened accession negotiations with the 
European  Union at the first EU -Albania intergovernmental conference in July  2022. The new 
accession negotiations methodology prov ides for a screening phase based on six clusters, which is 
expected to be completed later this month.  
3.10.   By July  2023, Albania had completed the screening process of the first three clusters: 
"Fundamentals", "Internal market" and "Competitiveness and inclusi ve growth". In this regard, plans 
have been prepared for alignment with the EU  acquis , and Albania has undertaken to fulfil all 
obligations for EU  accession. The Albanian delegation will undoubtedly provide more details on the 
latest developments in this process.  
3.11.   Since its accession to the WTO in 2000, Albania has been an active Member, co -sponsoring 
various initiatives on a broad range of topics, including MSMEs, the structured discussions on 
investment for development, e -commerce, tr ade and health, trade and environmental sustainability, 
the Informal Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade, and 
services domestic regulation.  
3.12.   In 2016, Albania approved a law accepting the Protocol Amending the Marrak esh Agreement 
Establishing the World Trade Organization, thus acceding to the Agreement on Trade Facilitation. In 
this connection, Albania has prepared all the notifications under the Agreement. The WTO  Joint 
Initiative on Services Domestic Regulation was also approved by the Albanian  Parliament in 
December  2022. Another welcome development is the Parliament's ratification of the WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, with instrument of ratification deposited exactly one month 
ago on 23  October  2023.  
3.13.   With re gard to Albania's accession to the WTO Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA), 
a negotiating group was established in September  2022 by Order of the Prime  Minister of Albania, 
headed by the Public Procurement Agency. In October  2022, Albania submitted a n update on 
domestic developments affecting its commitment to accede to the GPA to the Committee on 
Government Procurement of the WTO Secretariat, at the Committee's request. Albania took part in 
the meeting of the Committee on Government Procurement of 7  June 2023 and submitted its replies 
to the Checklist of Issues to the WTO Secretariat in July  2023.  
3.14.   After that general, albeit brief, overview, given time constraints, I would like to take this 
opportunity to look back at the main economic and trade develo pments in Albania over the last 
seven years.  
3.15.   First, as an overall assessment, Albania has followed a liberal approach to trade policy since 
its last Trade Policy Review in 2016, focusing more on trade facilitation than on tariff reductions. 
In this connect ion, we note that Albania is actively working to implement the free trade agreements 
with the EU, the Western Balkans (CEFTA), Türkiye and EFTA  States Parties. After Brexit, Albania 
and the United  Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland entered into a strategic Partnership, 
Trade and Cooperation Agreement in 2021. That Agreement's provisions are aligned with those of 
the SAA between Albania and the EU.  
3.16.   Changes were made to the MFN rates in November  2017, in accordance with the commitments 
under Schedu le CXLVI following the expansion of the WTO Information Technology Agreement, and 
to other unbound tariff lines. The import tariffs applied by Albania are low, with a maximum of 15%, 
and approximately 50.8% of all tariff lines have an MFN rate of 0%.  
3.17.   Legislative changes are also being made to bring MFN rates fully in line with the corresponding 
WTO bound rates.  
3.18.   Moreover, as outlined in the report by the WTO Trade Policy Review Body, Albania has 
maintained a very liberal, transparent and predictable trade re gime, and has refrained from 
undertaking any initiatives or policies that could constitute a barrier to trade.  
3.19.   In terms of the products traded, the analyses indicate that the textile and footwear industry 
dominated exports in 2022, with machinery and trans port equipment topping the list of imports.  
3.20.   Around 98% of Albania's trade volume involves trade partners with which Albania has signed 
a free trade agreement (FTA), with the EU being its main trading partner. In 2022, 73.4% of total 
exports were destined f or the EU and 51.6% of total imports came from the EU.  
3.21.   With respect to fiscal policy, this led to an increase in tax revenues, from 25.2% of GDP in 
2019 to 25.6% in 2021. In 2022, the Ministry of Finance and Economy began to implement the 
Medium -Term Reven ue Strategy covering the period 2022 -26. Its main aims are to increase tax 
revenues within five years, and abolish incentives, tax holidays, exemptions and reduced fees that 
had fulfilled their purpose or had failed to deliver the expected results for whic h they were designed.  
3.22.   The Strategy, which is being implemented and which was designed with the support of the 
International Monetary Fund, has been widely discussed with interest groups and the public, and is 
expected to be discussed in the Strategic Polic y Committee chaired by the Prime Minister. Could the 
Albanian delegation please tell us more about the outcomes of this Strategy?  
3.23.   In parallel, the fiscal deficit fell slightly. Higher government revenues, driven by inflation and 
underperforming capital exp enditure, has led to a decrease in the public deficit, down from 4.5% of 
GDP in 2021 to 3.7% of GDP in 2022.  As a result, public debt contracted to 64.6% of GDP, and 
then to 63.3% in the first quarter of 2023, thanks in particular to the sharp increase in  nominal GDP . 
3.24.   The main structural reforms undertaken by the Albanian Government focused, inter alia, on 
the energy sector, digitization, anti -corruption efforts, the justice system and the tourism sector. WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  Other important reforms were undertaken in the area s of customs, government procurement and 
combatting the informal economy.  
3.25.   In this connection, special emphasis should be placed on Albania's energy structure, which 
relies entirely on renewable sources, especially hydropower plants, as well as on the remar kable 
performance of the telecommunications, aviation and rail sectors, and the tourism industry, which 
accounts for over 17% to GDP and 20% of total employment.  
3.26.   I would, however, like to draw particular attention to the main pillars of the anti -corruption  
reform, namely the transparency of public services - 95% of which are digitized -, the improvement 
of the e -procurement system, strengthening the integrity of central public institutions, cooperation 
in criminal proceedings as part of corruption investiga tions, and stepping up anti -corruption 
awareness -raising and education.  
3.27.   Efforts to combat the informal economy have also continued, with the introduction of IT 
systems and digitization.  
3.28.   We look forward to the Albanian delegation's comments on the results o f this reform. As you 
know, the exchange of best practices in the fight against the scourge of corruption is of particular 
interest to various WTO  Members.  
3.29.   To conclude, since the last Trade Policy Review in 2016, Albania has pressed on with its 
decision to  reform and develop its economy, which was underpinned by satisfactory political and 
economic stability. Of course, Albania still faces many challenges, but its achievements and 
commitment to continue on this path are to be commended.  
3.30.   I wish the delegation  of Albania every success in its Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
SINGAPORE  
4.1.  Let me begin by extending a very warm welcome to the delegation from Albania, led by Deputy 
Minister of Finance and Economy , Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj. I would like to express our appreciation to 
Albania for the comprehensive Government Report and statement, as well as the Secretariat for its 
detailed Report. I would also like to thank the Chair, Ambassador Saqer  Almoqbel ( Kingdom of 
Saudi  Arabia), and the discussant, Ambassador Sabri  Bachtobji (Tunisia), for their insightful 
statements.  
4.2.  Allow me to make three points.  First, Singapore commends Albania 's continuous efforts in 
economic and structural reforms since their last Review. These reforms have contrib uted to Albania 's 
macroeconomic stability and resilience, enabling it to withstand the impact of external shocks arising 
from the natural disasters and the Russia n Federation -Ukraine conflict. Stimulus packages to 
facilitate rapid reconstruction following the 2019 earthquake, and economic recovery following the 
pandemic have enabled Albania to maintain an upwards growth trajectory. Albania 's reforms in the 
energy and tourism sectors, justice system, customs, taxation and government procurement 
frameworks as  well as its fight against corruption at all levels of government, are promising moves 
in the right direction to promote foreign investment, improve competitiveness, and generate 
employment in key sectors.  
4.3.  Second, Singapore commends Albania 's remarkable a chievements in digitali zation. We were 
heartened to learn about the success story of the e -Albania platform which offers 95% of government 
services online. The figures are impressive. As seen in the Government Report, in 2022, a total of 
8.7 million public services were obtained through e -Albania, of which 1.6  million were public services 
provided for businesses. The e -Albania Government Portal serves as a one -stop single access point 
for all businesses to obtain all services they need from the Govern ment such as the opening of a 
new business, applications for permits and licences, payment of taxes, submission of balance 
sheets,  etc. Businesses have benefited from reduction in the time and costs to receive services, 
simplification of bureaucratic proce dures, and improved transparency and quality in the services 
provided. We look forward to exchange experiences, share best practices and collaborate more 
closely with Albania to leverage on the digital transformation to further improve our respective 
busin ess environments.  
4.4.  Third,  Singapore commends Albania 's continued commitment and contribution to the 
rules-based multilateral trading system.  We welcome Albania 's ratification of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement in 2016, its acceptance of the expansion in p roduct coverage under the Information 
Technology Agreement in 2018 and its ratification of the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement last month. 
We also look forward to the resumption of  Albania 's accession process to the Government 
Procurement  Agreement. Furtherm ore, as highlighted in the Secretariat 's Report, Albania has 
actively participated in all four of the Joint Statement Initiatives (JSIs) and  joined the initiatives on 
trade and environmental sustainability, trade and health, plastics pollution and environm entally 
sustainable plastics trade , and the  informal working group on gender. While we commend Albania 
for maintaining a simple tariff structure with relatively low applied tariffs, we note with concern that 
applied rates for 24  tariff lines exceed their c orresponding bound rates. We urge Albania to bring its 
applied tariffs into conformity with its bound rate commitments without delay. We also encourage 
Albania to submit the outstanding notifications on domestic support in agriculture and quantitative 
restrictions as flagged by the Secretariat, we note the active steps that Albania has planned, namely 
to seek technical assistance from the Secretariat to alleviate their capacity constraints relating to 
agricultural notifications.  
4.5.  In closing , Singapore looks forward to working closely with Albania to advance our mutual goal 
of strengthening the rules -based multilateral trading system and we  wish Albania every success for 
its third TPR.  
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  JAPAN  
4.6.  Japan warmly welcomes the delegation of Albania, headed by H .E. Deputy Minister  of Finance 
and Economy, Mr  Endrit  Yzeiraj. We are grateful for the WTO Secretariat in preparing the 
comprehensive reports for today 's Review.  We also thank H.E.  Mrs Vasilika  Hysi, Permanent 
Representative of Albania; and H.E. Mr Sabri Bachtobji  for his role as our discussant.  
4.7.  We would like to commend Albania for its economic recovery and significant increase in trade 
volume during the review period, despite the catastrophic earthquake that occurred in 2019 and the 
COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.8.  Taking this opportunity, I would like to highlight a few points.  First, on the multilateral trading 
system and the WTO, Albania has been a Member of the WTO since 2000, and we are grateful for 
its contributions to strengthening the multilateral trading system.  
4.9.  In addition, we would like to commend Albania for joining s everal fora of the WTO, namely the 
joint statement initiatives on e -commerce, investment facilitation, msmes, and services domestic 
regulation . We further commend Albania for joining Initiatives on trade and environmental 
sustainability, trade and health, and plastics pollution and environmentally sustainable plastics trade, 
and also for being a member of the informal working group on gender.  
4.10.   We would also like to note Albania 's efforts in having formally accepted the Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies on 23  October  2023. 
4.11.   As regards Albania 's accession to the GPA, Japan welcomed the participation of the Albanian 
negotiating team from the capital during this month 's CGP (Committee on Government Procurement) 
week. During the week, Japan held fruitful bilateral discussions with Albania. Japan is committed to 
continuing the negotiations for Albania 's accession to the GPA.  
4.12.   Regarding notifications to the WTO, Albania had more than 10  outstanding notifications as of 
June 2023. We would like to encourage Albania to im plement these notifications as soon as possible.  
4.13.   Second, as regards Albania 's domestic legislation for trade and investment, Japan notes 
Albania 's efforts for the development of its trade and investment regime as well as other domestic 
regimes to conform t o the EU standard. We also welcome Albania 's efforts to make licensing 
procedures and public services available online through the e-Albania portal, and to attract 
investment through the Business Development and Investment Strategy (BIDS).  
4.14.   On the other han d, Japan would like to mention that there are several cases where amended 
laws and regulations have not been entered into force, and Japan hopes that enforcement of such 
laws and regulations and the transparency of administrative procedures will be ensured .  
4.15.   Japan also hopes that the domestic laws and regulations on trade and investment will be made 
available in English in a timely manner.  
4.16.   Third, I would like to give updates on our bilateral relationship , as Japan and Albania have 
enjoyed friendly and grow ing bilateral relations for years.  
4.17.   In February this year, Albania 's Prime  Minister Edi  Rama visited Japan and held the 
Japan -Albania Summit Meeting with Prime Minister K ishida  Fumio. The two leaders confirmed that 
they would continue bilateral cooperation , including further strengthening of bilateral economic 
relations.  
4.18.   I would like to mention Ambassador Hysi's tremendous efforts to develop our relations as the 
former Chair of Japan -Albania Friendship Parliamentarians' Union. In addition, members of the 
Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Albania visited Japan in June of this year to tour 
Japanese companies and exchanged views with relevant economic organizations.  
4.19.   We see the ongoing development of our bilateral economic relations through such 
opportunities and bilateral trade, such as imports of farm -raised tuna from Albania, and Japan hopes 
such relations will be further developed.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  4.20.   To conclude, we would like to thank Alba nia again for its contribution to the multilateral trading 
system and the WTO, and we wish Albania a successful and productive third Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.21.   Let me begin by warmly welcoming Albania 's delegation to their third Trade Policy Revie w 
today, led by Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy, Mr  Endrit  Yzeiraj.  
4.22.   We are grateful to the Government of Albania and the Secretariat for their insightful reports, 
to our able discussant, H.E.  Mr Sabri Bachtobji (Tunisia), and to you Chair, for faci litating this review.  
4.23.   The UK notes with appreciation the recent positive economic developments experienced by 
Albania. Despite the shocks of the 2019 earthquake and the COVID -19 pandemic, Albania 
maintained overall a positive economic performance undertaking relevant steps to ensure 
macroeconomic and financial stability and improve standards to protect its citizens.  
4.24.   We particularly welcome the efforts to increasingly open the economy pursuing regional 
integration through Berlin process and accelerating their accession to the Agreement on Government 
Procurement (GPA).  
4.25.   Allow me to briefly focus on the important bilateral ties between our two countries.  
4.26.   The UK and Albania enjoy a close and constructive relationship and I am pleased to say that 
this TPR is only the most recent engagement we have had the pleasure of sharing in recent months.  
4.27.   Since the last review period, the UK and Albania signed a Partnership, Trade and Cooperation 
Agreement, which entered into force in May  2021. The UK pres ented this agreement at last week 's 
Committee on Regional Trade Agreements, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Albania 
for its close cooperation in drafting our joint statement for the committee.  
4.28.   Though trade between the UK and Albania is modest, our important trade agreement has laid 
the foundations for rapid growth – trade in goods and services has increased from GBP 111 million 
in 2021 to GBP 533 million in 2023.  
4.29.   The UK 's then Foreign Secretary and the Prime Minister 's Trade Envoy were a ble to lay further 
foundations for this remarkable growth with their recent visits to Albania.  
4.30.   Alongside enjoying Albania 's famous hospitality and excellent cuisine during his visit, the 
former Foreign Secretary had the opportunity to open the UK Chamber of Commerce in Albania. The 
Chamber will help facilitate greater trade and investment between the UK and Albania and will 
provide a vital platform for businesses in both countries to foster new partnerships and strengthen 
existing ones.  
4.31.   More broadly, the U K is a strong supporter of Albania 's ongoing economic development. Over 
GBP 4 billion of financing is available to Albania through UK Export Finance. I hope that Albanian 
companies can make full use of this opportunity to pursue important infrastructure an d renewable 
energy projects, promoting clean growth and economic development throughout the country.  
4.32.   Further regional integration is also key to Albania 's ongoing economic development. The UK 
was therefore pleased to attend the constructive Berlin Process  summit held in Tirana last month. 
A more unified regional market will boost Albania 's economy, attract greater foreign investment, 
and encourage private sector growth.  
4.33.   I would now like to turn from the regional to the global, and to Albania 's membership of 
the WTO. The UK welcome 's Albania 's firm commitment to the rules based multilateral trading 
system, through its active participation within the WTO.  
4.34.   I would particularly like to commend Albania for its recent ratification of the ambitious fisheries 
agreement, which is an important step towards ending harmful fishing subsidies, and which the UK 
looks forward to ratifying by the end of the year.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  4.35.   The UK was also pleased to read within the Governmen t Report that Albania is accelerating 
its commitment to the important Government Procurement Agreement, and we look forward to 
welcoming Albania 's accession to the agreement in the near future.  
4.36.   Finally, the UK highly values Albania 's endorsement of the Joint Declaration on Trade and 
Women 's Economic Empowerment agr eed at the 11th Ministerial Conference. We would also welcome 
the opportunity to hear more about Albania 's gender equality strategy for 2021 -2030 at the Informal 
Working Group on Trade and Gender.  
4.37.   I would like to conclude, by touching on one of Albania 's most prized national values, Besa. 
Besa is the quality of complete reliability, trustworthiness, and honour. Many Members here today 
will have the fast -approaching MC13 at the back of their minds, and I believe that we should all draw 
inspiration  from Albanian Besa heading into those negotiations.  
4.38.   I would like to thank Albania for its answers to our advanced written questions , to the 
Secretariat for its insightful Report, and to the Chair and discussant for facilitating this review.  
BRAZIL  
4.39.   We woul d like to welcome the delegation from  Albania, headed by  H.E. Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj,  
Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy, and extend our greetings to its representatives in Geneva, 
here represented by H .E. Mrs Vasilika  Hysi, Ambassador  and Permanent Represe ntative of Albania 
to the WTO.  
4.40.   Brazil congratulates the Government of  Albania  for engaging in its  third Trade Policy Review. 
We would also like to express our appreciation to the WTO Secretariat for its thorough and 
comprehensive Report, as well as to you,  Chair, and the discussant, H .E. Mr Sabri Bachtobji  
(Tunisia), for your contribution to a successful trade monitoring exercise.  
4.41.   Brazil attaches great importance to trade policy reviews, in the understanding that they 
contribute to enhance transparency and predictability for trade stakeholders. The  current "polycrisis"  
and its impact on the global economy reinforce the relevance of this kind of exercise.  
4.42.   In this regard, while acknowledging that  Albania 's level of growth and other economic 
indicators have been affected by external shocks, such as  a major earthquake in 2019,  COVID -19 
and the war in Ukraine,  we commend the country for  the expansion in its economy by 3.2% annually 
from 2015 to 2022 and for its growth by 8.9% in 2021.  
4.43.   It should be pointed out that  Albanian imports and exports doubled in value terms during the 
period of the Review.  The important role of  re-exports  in its trade is  noteworthy  and illustrates 
Albania 's integration in global value chains.   
4.44.   Albania 's use of tr ade and trade -related policies as tools to  attract foreign investment, foster 
economic growth and generate employment  should serve as an example of how trade can  generate 
positive spillover  effects on the broader economy.  We are certain, in this context, t hat, in the coming 
years, these policies will bear even more good fruits and  Albania will become more and more 
integrated within global trade.  
4.45.   We are pleased to note that  Albania  is, like Brazil, endowed with rich  natural resources. It is 
our belief that they can and will be key to promoting sustainable development and fighting climate 
change both in the country and worldwide.  
4.46.   In this sense, we  were particularly happy to note that, as we approach MC13, Albania is on 
its way to depositing its instrumen t of acceptance  of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries  Subsidies, 
after its approval by the Albanian Parliament in June  2023. The Agreement is a major achievement 
for ensuring the sustainability of our oceans, a goal that is also pursued by Albania when it come s 
to its own fisheries sector.  
4.47.   Speaking of which, on WTO issues, Brazil notes with satisfaction  that Albania is a constructive 
participant in discussions and initiatives in this Organization, under the aegis of its commitment to 
an open, non -discriminatory  and rules -based multilateral trading system.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  4.48.   Regarding  Brazil and Albania 's relationship, it is worth noting that  both countries established 
diplomatic relations in 1961. In 2009, Albania transferred to Bras ilia its sole Mission in 
South  America, having b een followed by the opening, by Brazil, in 2010, of its resident Embassy in 
Tirana. Brazil is the only American country, besides the U nited States , to have a diplomatic 
representation based in Albania.  
4.49.   We are proud  to be, since 2005, Albania's biggest meat  exporter. Meat is the main product of 
our bilateral trade and  corresponded to 53% of the total exchanges in 2021. In 2022, the bilateral 
trade as a whole expanded by 39.8% in comparison to the previous year.  
4.50.   Despite these good figures, however, there rema in challenges in our bilateral trade.  The total 
volume of imports and exports is still modest and  concentrated in few  items, notably food products. 
Albania  can count on our constructive engagement, both bilaterally and here at the WTO, to improve 
and diver sify our trading flows.  
4.51.   In this sense, we note with satisfaction that Brazilian and Albanian authorities in Tirana have 
been identifying areas of potential cooperation in agricultural development and technology. We are 
also looking forward to concluding ou r Framework Agreement on Technical Cooperation, whose 
negotiations have just been resumed.  
4.52.   Having said all that, Brazil wishes the delegation of  Albania  a successful conclusion of its  
third Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.53.   On behalf of the United  States, I am pleased to participate in Albania 's third Trade Policy 
Review. We welcome Deputy Minister Yzeiraj, Ambassador Hysi, and other delegates, and appreciate 
the opportunity to clarify aspects of Albania 's reform efforts since its last Review.  
4.54.   Alban ia has faced many economic challenges during the period under review, from a 2019 
earthquake to the COVID -19 pandemic to regional geo -political pressures, resulting in a real GDP 
contraction of 3.3% in 2020, among other impacts.  
4.55.   However, as outlined in the  Secretariat 's Report, Albania 's overall economy expanded by 3.2% 
annually in real terms between 2015 and 2022, labour  force participation increased and the tourism 
sector rebounded, demonstrating that the Government 's macro and fiscal policy responses to these 
challenges were effective.  
4.56.   We appreciate Albania 's continued commitment to the open, non -discriminatory, and rules 
based global multilateral trading system, its acceptance of the Agreement on Trade Facilitation (TFA) 
in 2016, and expansion of product  coverage under the Information Technology Agreement in 2018. 
We look forward to the resumption of negotiations for Albania to accede to the Agreement on 
Government Procurement, and to the deposit of Albania 's instrument of acceptance to the 
Agreement on F isheries Subsidies.  
4.57.   Regarding Albania 's adoption of WTO tariff rates, we understand that Albania maintains 
applied rates that exceed bound rates for 24  tariff lines and would be interested in learning why 
Albania maintains these increased applied rates and  what efforts Albania is undertaking to lower its 
applied duty rates to be equal to or lower than its bound duty rates.  
4.58.   The United  States continues to have concerns since Albania 's previous TPR regarding efforts 
on sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures . The United  States is concerned that trading partners 
may not have been provided the opportunity to review and comment on important SPS measures 
that are part of Albania 's regulatory framework. We request that Albania explain what steps it is 
taking to  ensure all SPS measures that may significantly impact trade are notified to the WTO SPS 
Committee.  
4.59.   We support Albania 's aspirations to join the European  Union, which has helped drive important 
judicial and other reforms, and congratulate Albania on the signi ficant progress made in the last few 
years toward s starting accession negotiations. We encourage continued efforts to implement reforms WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  and robust anti -corruption measures aimed at making Albania more attractive for trade and 
investment.  
4.60.   We also note furth er progress on reforms in the area of intellectual property rights, including 
measures aimed at meeting EU accession requirements. However, we seek a better understanding 
of Albania 's efforts to address the problem of infringement of copyright online, whet her Albania 
currently has any civil or criminal provisions regarding online copyright infringement or whether it 
is working on legislation in this area. We would also appreciate an update on Albania 's efforts to 
address the problem of trade in infringing products. We look forward to hearing an explanation of 
the reason for the significant reduction in Albanian Customs suspensions of suspected infringing 
products in 2021 and to understanding whether any action is being taken to increase border 
enforcement to prior levels.  
4.61.   In conclusion, the United  States welcomes Albania's significant advances in several areas  
since its last TPR in 2016, and we look forward to working with you in implementing the  additional 
reforms necessary to facilitate Albania' s continued economic development and  integration into 
Euro-Atlantic structures.  
CHINA  
4.62.   First of all, I would like to join others to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of Albania 
led by H .E. Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj.  
4.63.   I would also like to thank the Government of Albania and the WTO Secretariat for the 
preparation of the Review and  appreciate the insightful and lively comments by the discussant, 
H.E. Ambassador Sabri  Bachtobji . 
4.64.   China commends Albania 's significant progress in economy and trade over the review period, 
despite of a major earthquake in 2019 and the global challenge of the COVID -19 pandemic. 
In response to COVID -19, Albania 's Government implemented appropriate monetary, fiscal and 
financial  measures and its economy showed resilience against the impact of such external shocks, 
and thereby the country 's economy experienced a strong rebound in 2021 with real GDP growth of 
8.9% and 4.86% in 2022.  
4.65.   China thinks highly of Albania 's remarkable effor ts to promote inclusive and sustainable 
economic growth. They include, inter alia, timely adjustments on monetary and fiscal policies in light 
of current situations, structural reforms in energy sector, digitalization, anticorruption, justice 
system and the tourism sector, improving business environment, establishing technology and 
economic development zones, streamlining business registration and licensing and etc., which 
guarantees a stable socio -political environment conducive to long -term economic gro wth. 
4.66.   China appreciates Albania 's active participation in the multilateral trading system and also its 
contribution. We also look forward to Albania 's further engagement and greater contributions in joint 
initiatives on MSMEs, investment facilitation for de velopment, electronic commerce, service domestic 
regulation and other environment -related initiatives, such as the dialogue on plastics pollution and 
environmentally sustainable plastics trade.  
4.67.   I would like to express my warmest welcome to the new Ambassa dor Mrs  Vasilika  Hysi. 
China  looks forward to working with Albania on MC13 and the way forward to reinvigorate the WTO.  
4.68.   Regarding regional economic cooperation, since its last Trade P olicy Review in 2016, Albania 
has signed the Action Plan for the establis hment of the Common Regional Market with other Western 
Balkan countries, and different agreements with Kosovo such as the on -work mobility, intellectual 
property, investment cooperation, customs procedures. These efforts will surely help improve the 
integr ation of Albania into the global economy.  
4.69.   China and Albania have strong economic complementarities and great potential for 
cooperation. As our statistics shows, in the first nine months of 2023, China 's bilateral trade with 
Albania totalled  USD 0.98 billion. According to the Secretariat 's Report, China has been largest 
market in Asia for Albania 's merchandise exports since 2015.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  4.70.   For the purpose of this review, China submitted questions regarding Albanian General 
Directorate of Standardizations, the growth of the production of fishery products, the increase of 
fuel subsidy and livestock support, and measures supporting its exports of agricultural and fishing 
products.  
4.71.   Finally, we wish Albania 's Trade Policy Review a full success.  
UKRAINE  
4.72.   At the outset I would like to extend a warm welcome to  the delegation of Albania headed by 
Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy , H.E. Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj and warmly welcome in Geneva our 
new colleague Permanent Representative of Albania to the WTO , H.E. Mrs Vasilika  Hysi.  
4.73.   On behalf of the delegation Ukraine, I would like to commend the Albanian team and WTO 
Secretariat for their substantial work done in preparing this Trade Policy Review.  We also highly 
appreciate the insightful analysis presented by the d istinguished discussant, H.E.  Ambassador 
Sabri Bachtobji  (Tunisia).  
4.74.   Participation in this event offers us a good opportunity to gain a better understanding of the 
main improvements and developments in Albania 's trade, investment , and economic policy since the 
previous Review in 2016.  
4.75.   Ukraine acknowledges the achievement of macroeconomic stability and resilient economic 
performance, demonstrated by Albanian economy despite the external shocks such as the 
earthquake in 2019, the COVID -19 pandemic and the cons equences of the Russian military invasion 
of Ukraine.  
4.76.   We express our sincere gratitude for the consistent position of Albania in support of Ukraine 's 
sovereignty and territorial integrity  and defence of the UN Charter , as well as for the assistance 
provide d by the Albanian Government to Ukraine in the face of the Russian Aggression . We note 
with appreciation the detailed elaboration in the Albania 's Report of the devastating consequences 
of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine in the sphere of inte rnational trade. No doubt the 
reckless actions of the Russian  Federation exacerbate macroeconomic instability of the countries and 
extremely negatively influence international trade in general.  
4.77.   Bilateral trade between Ukraine and Albania, has been  graduall y growing  until 2021 , even 
despite the COVID -19 pandemic. In particular, it increased by 20 .7% in 2021 to USD  49 4 million 
comparing to USD  40.9 million in 2020. Last year, because of the disastrous repercussions of the 
Russian military invasion of Ukraine , the volume of trade in goods and services between Ukraine 
and Albania fell by 27 .4% compared to 2021 level and amounted to USD  35.9 million. The drop in 
trade in services was even more drastic – by 82 .2% compared to the previous year.  
4.78.   We believe that achievement of our common objective of becoming the EU  member  State s 
and our efforts aimed at approximation of national legislation to the EU acquis  will result in the 
improved conditions for our trade and business activities and will enhance our trade tur nover despite 
the adverse economic and social impacts of the existing polycrisis.  
4.79.   Taking this opportunity, we would like to congratulate Albania with the start of the EU 
accession negotiations on 19  July 2022.  
4.80.   The political dialogue between our countries i s active and dynamic and we are ready to further 
develop and strengthen our trade and economic relations. In this regard the work of the 
Ukrainian -Albanian Joint Commission is an important, indispensable tool for strengthening our 
bilateral economic and tr ade cooperation. The Joint Commission will serve as the main platform for 
implementation of joint initiatives and strategic projects. We are waiting for the first meeting of the 
Commission in 2024 to begin its work.  
4.81.   Ukraine appreciates Albania 's contributi on to the WTO, and its unequivocal support of the 
open, non -discriminatory and rules -based multilateral global trading system. We note the 
participation of Albania in different initiatives within the WTO, and commend the ratification by 
Albania of the Agre ement on Fisheries Subsidies, progress made in the implementation of the Trade WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  Facilitation Agreement, and intention to accede to the GPA. Ukraine is ready to continue our effective 
partnership across different WTO bodies with the aim to stimulate and inte nsify economic 
cooperation between our countries, expand mutual trade, eliminate further barriers to trade, provide 
for a predictable commercial environment for business planning and investments, and to contribute 
positively to future integration of our co untries into the EU.  
4.82.   Given the importance of this TPR exercise, we submitted some questions to Albania 
concerning:  
• recent developments in its trade regime, business activities and economic environment;  
• sanitary requirements and control measures with regard  to imports of products in light of 
recent amendments (2022) in the food and veterinary services legislation;  
• new developments in national legislation regulating the micro, small and medium -sized 
enterprises and start -ups.  
4.83.   Ukraine is thankful to the delegation of Albania for providing already the written answers to 
our questions.  
4.84.   In conclusion, Ukraine would like to wish Albania a very successful Trade Policy Review and is 
ready to contribute constructively to this end.  
EUROPEAN UNION  
4.85.   First, the EU would like to reaffirm its support to Ukraine 's independence, sovereignty and 
territorial integrity within its internationally recogni zed borders and its inherent right of self -defence 
against the Russian aggression.  
4.86.   I would like  to welcome warmly the delegation of Albania, led by Mr  Endrit  Yzeiraj, Deputy 
Minister, Ministry of Finance and Economy, and H.E. Ambassador Mrs  Vasilika  Hysi in Geneva. 
I would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat and Government of Albania for their respective reports 
and the discussant, H.E.  Mr Sabri Bachtobji (Tunisia) for introducing us to the third Trade Policy 
Review of Albania since its accession to the WTO in 2000.  
4.87.   Since its last Trade Policy Review in 2016, the Albanian economy has showed remarkable 
resilience faced with the economic impact of COVID -19 and the 2019 earthquake. This resilience, 
reinforced with a strong fiscal policy, contributed to a strong GDP grow th in 2021 and 2022. In 2024, 
economic growth is projected to rebound to 3.9% and stay close to this rate in the medium term, 
mainly supported by consumption and investment as well as exports.  
4.88.   This strong recovery provided a boost to the labour market, wi th the effect that Albania now 
has the highest participation rate and one of the lowest unemployment rates in the region.  
4.89.   However, a lot remains to be done to improve the life of many Albanian citizens. Institutional 
and regulatory reforms could further b oost economic growth and raise the country 's productivity and 
competitiveness; in particular reforms related to the tax system, property and land ownership, 
eradication of corruption and informality, the organization and the efficiency of the public 
admini stration and the ongoing brain -drain.  
4.90.   In that respect, Albania would benefit from making the best out of its strengths such as its 
geopolitical stability, solid GDP growth, young population, renewable energy resources, growing 
tourism sector, close proxim ity to the EU market and the positive perception on accession across 
the country.  
4.91.   The EU continues to be the first trading partner of Albania and accounts for 59% of its total 
trade. In 2022, we exchanged goods worth of EUR 7.4 billion, which is more than double the amount 
of traded goods since the last Trade Policy Review . The EU is also the largest provider of technical 
and financial assistance to Albania with the budget allocated for the period 2014 -2023 amounting to 
about EUR 900 million.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  4.92.   As described i n the WTO Secretariat Report, the EU -Albania Stabilisation and Association 
Agreement (SAA) foresees the possibility to conclude an Agreement on Conformity Assessment and 
Acceptance of Industrial Products (ACAA) between Albania and the European  Union. As pa rt of the 
new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, the European  Commission has reaffirmed the possibility 
to conclude Agreements on Conformity assessment with a view to unlocking the Single Market for 
goods manufactured in the Western Balkans, including in  Albania.  
4.93.   In July  2022, the European  Union opened accession negotiations with Albania. Since then, we 
have been going through an extensive exercise of examination of the alignment of Albania's laws 
with the EU acquis . This process should soon be completed  and the EU hopes to open the first cluster 
covering fundamental issues such as those relating to the judiciary and fundamental rights in the 
very near future.  
4.94.   The EU would like to praise Albania for the reforms carried out since the last Trade Policy 
Review. We also thank Albania for providing replies to our questions on Albania 's trade policies and 
measures, including customs procedures, incentives, customs valuation, intellectual property rights, 
and developments in the e -commerce and digitalization as w ell as some sectoral policies, notably 
energy sector and transport services.  
4.95.   The EU welcomes the start of the accession process of Albania to the WTO Agreement on 
Government Procurement, in particular the recent provision of comprehensive information rega rding 
the legal framework and the institutional structure of the public procurement system in Albania. We 
look forward for the swift submission of the initial market access offer by Albania. We also extend 
to Albania the invitation to join the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA) as a 
temporary measure until the WTO dispute settlement system is restored. The EU would like to take 
this occasion to applaud Albania 's ratification of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies 
(phase  1), as ad opted at the 12th Ministerial Conference of the WTO.  
4.96.   Finally, the EU looks forward to constructive engagement with Albania to achieve positive 
outcomes at the upcoming 13th Ministerial Conference of the WTO next February.  
4.97.   I would like to end my statement by wishing Albania all the best for the third Review.  
TÜRK İYE 
4.98.   We would like to  extend  a very warm welcome to  the Albanian delegation headed by 
Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy . 
4.99.   We thank the Secretar iat and  the Government of  Albania  for their comprehensive Reports, as 
well as Ambassador Mr Sabri Bachtobji  of Tunisia  for his  invaluable contribution to this review.  
4.100.   We would like to start by thanking Albanian Government and nation for their support after 
the earthquakes in Türkiye.   
4.101.   Albania was one of the first countries that mobilized its capacities to provide both search and 
rescue teams and humanitarian assistance.  
4.102.   We also thank Albania for its replies to our questions.  
4.103.   As stated in the Reports, Albania is a committed Member of multilateral trading system . 
We commend Albania's participation in various WTO bodies.  
4.104.   Our deep-rooted  bilateral relations with Albania evolved into a strategic partnership in 2021.  
4.105.   We have achieved our goal of reaching USD 1 billion of bilateral trade volume in 2022.  
4.106.   The Türkiye -Albania Free Trade Agreement  (2008) is the main driving force behind this 
achievement.   
4.107.   However, we are well aware that the two countries have the potential to expand trade 
relations beyond these numbers.   WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  4.108.   We consider energy, infrastructure, defence industry, information technologies, agricultural 
industry and health as potential a reas for further cooperation in this regard.  
4.109.   Türkiye is among the biggest foreign investors in Albania.   
4.110.   Today, more than 600  Turkish companies are active in many sectors of Albania, from iron 
and steel to mining, from communication to banking.   
4.111.   Turkish contractors excel at large -scale and value -added structural projects such as airports, 
subways, industrial facilities, natural gas/oil refineries, highways , and power plants.  
4.112.   We strongly believe that Turkish contractors, who have realized 37  projec ts in Albania with 
a total value of USD 1.8 billion, will further contribute to the development of Albania in the upcoming 
years.   
4.113.   However, some of our investors are facing long -standing issues due to their disputes with 
the authorities. We hope these issu es will be resolved through mutual agreements as soon as 
possible.   
4.114.   Considering growing interest of our investors in Albania fair settlement of disputes will have 
positive effect in increasing Turkish investments.   
4.115.   We will continue to improve relations wit h Albania in every field.  
4.116.   Before concluding, we  want to thank Ambassador  Mrs Vasilika  Hysi and for the excellent 
preparation for this review.  
4.117.   We wish  Albania  a very successful Review.  
TUNISI A 
4.118.   My delegation is pleased to participate in Albania's third Trade Policy Review and would like 
to extend a warm welcome to  H.E. Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy, and 
the delegation accompanying him from Tirana and Geneva. We would like to commend him for the 
analysis and synthesis work carr ied out, providing us with a comprehensive picture of Albania's 
economic situation and trade policy.  
4.119.   I would like to thank you, Chair, for your report, and H.E.  Ambassador  Bachtobji for the 
pertinent remarks made in his presentation. Lastly, I would like t o congratulate the Secretariat on 
the thorough report it has submitted to us for this review.  
4.120.   It is clear that, throughout its transition, the Albanian economy posted solid performances. 
During the period under review, the Albanian economy continued to see  positive growth despite 
being affected by a severe earthquake in 2019, the COVID -19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and 
the difficulties in the eurozone, which accounts for almost 75% of Albania's exports, 50% of its 
imports and is the main investor in the country.  
4.121.   The economy proved particularly resilient in 2022, with growth of 4.8%, driven by robust 
activity in the tourism, real estate and services sectors. Despite limited budgetary headroom, the 
momentum resulting from the economic stimulus measures ado pted in the aftermath of the 
earthquake, meant that the Albanian authorities were able to provide effective responses that 
mitigated the pandemic's impact and curbed inflation, which remained the weakest in the region, 
thus containing the adverse effects o n household purchasing power. The flexible exchange rate has 
also acted as a buffer against shocks, absorbing part of the global rise seen in food and energy 
prices.  
4.122.   Albania's economic and trade policies are guided by the objective of becoming an EU membe r 
State, with a strong emphasis on reforms in various areas, including the justice system, where 
efforts continue to be made. We particularly welcome the Strategic Investment Law, which aims to 
reduce investment -related risks and improve the investment env ironment; the cross -cutting policy 
of digitizing public services, including customs services; the prudential regulations for the banking WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  sector to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism; and intensified efforts to 
formalize the economy.  
4.123.   With respect to its WTO -related activities, Albania remains committed to the open, 
non-discriminatory and rules -based global multilateral trading system. We welcome the progress 
made in the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the resumpt ion of 
negotiations to accede to the Agreement on Government Procurement, and the recent deposit of the 
instrument of acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. We urge Albania to submit 
outstanding notifications, especially those on agriculture.  
4.124.   The friendship and cooperation between Tunisia and Albania date back to the early 1970s, 
and are based on mutual trust and dialogue on the main regional and international issues of common 
interest.  
4.125.   Nevertheless, trade between Tunisia and Albania remains ve ry modest, as there is no 
bilateral legal framework governing economic and trade relations, and visits between support 
agencies and bodies and the private sector in both countries are limited.  
4.126.   Various draft bilateral cooperation agreements are currently un der consideration to address 
this situation, notably:  
• A draft agreement on political consultations.  
• A draft agreement between the Tunisian Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (FIPA) and 
the Albanian Investment Development Agency (AIDA), aimed at encouraging the business 
community's participation in international exhibitions and fairs held in the two countries.  
• A draft agreement to prevent double taxation and tax evasion. It is also proposed to conclude 
a preferential trade agreement between the tw o countries, with a view to exploring export 
development opportunities and making use of the advanced level of mutual cooperation with 
the EU.  
4.127.   Before concluding, I would like to join my Ambassador in welcoming 
H.E. Ambassador  Vasilika  Hysi and to express o ur readiness to work with her and her excellent team 
in Geneva.  
4.128.   Lastly, we wish Albania a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA  
4.129.   The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia is pleased to take part in the third  Trade Policy Review of 
Albania, and we wish to extend a very warm welcome to the head of delegation of Alania 
H.E. Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy of Albania, and his distinguished 
team and thank him for his valuable opening statement.  
4.130.   We would like to take this opport unity to thank our brothers and sisters in Albania and the 
WTO Secretariat for their detailed and comprehensive Trade Policy Review Reports. We also thank 
the discussant H.E.  Dr Sabri Bachtobji , Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Tunisia to the 
WTO for his insightful remarks.  
4.131.   The Secretariat Report highlights that despite the Albanian GDP contraction of 3.3% in 2020, 
due to a major earthquake in 2019 and COVID -19, Albanian economy expanded on average by 3.2% 
annually between 2015 -2022.  
4.132.   The Kingdom o f Saudi  Arabia would like to commend Albania for opening its economy by 
maintaining four additional FTA 's during the review period, its acceptance of the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation in 2016, its Business Development and Investment Strategy 2021 -27 whic h focuses on 
attracting investment, SMEs and innovation, and human capital development.  
4.133.   We congratulate Albania for establishing a Strategic Investment Law aiming to reduce 
investment related risks; for steps taken to enhance the economy by adapting new la ws such as 
Metrology Law in 2020, Copyright Law in 2016, and Bankruptcy Law.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  4.134.   Albania greatly values the rules -based global multilateral trading system, and we appreciate 
its actively engagement in the WTO activities including the four joint statement initi atives. 
4.135.   The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia enjoys deep brotherly relationship with Albania  supported by 
shared membership in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Joint Saudi -Albanian 
Committee which established to enhance commercial relations between the two countries in a way 
that serves friendship ties and joint interests between the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia and Albania and 
the importance of enhancing commercial and investment partnerships remains very active in 
strengthen the commercial relat ions and investment partnership in the two countries and the fourth 
Committee meeting was held in Riyadh on March  2022.  
4.136.   Last but not least, we would like to thank my dear sister H.E.  Mrs Vasilika  Hysi, Ambassador 
and Permanent Representative of Albania to the WTO and her distinguished team for the great 
cooperation between our two missions here in Geneva.  
4.137.   To conclude, we wish our brothers and sisters in Albania a very successful Trade Policy 
Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF ALBANIA  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  Please  allow me on behalf  of the Government  of Albania  to thank  the WTO Members  for their 
assessment  of the reforms  undertaken  in the reporting  period  by the Government  of Albania.  We are 
encouraged  by your support  of Albanian  institutions  in pursuing  economic  reforms  and ensuring  an 
inclusive  and sustainable  economic  development  environment . 
5.2.  Albania  provided  answers  to all questions  received  in advance  and we are open to inform  WTO 
Members  on any new issue of interest  should  they arise.  We also appreciate  the interest  shown  from 
the Members,  and on behalf  of the Albanian  Delegation  I am pleased  to share  with you additional  
information  regarding  the economic  and commercial  reforms  during  the review  period.  
Macroeconomic  stability  
5.3.  Inflation  is forecasted  to continue  to moderate  during  2023 and return  to target  by mid-2024.  
The decline  in inflation  is expected  to be driven  by receding  foreign  inflationary  pressures  reflecting  
both retreating  commodity  prices  and exchange  rate appreciation.  On the other  hand,  domestic  
inflationary  pressures  are expected  to decline  more slowly  due to the full transmission  of monetary  
policy  tightening  and the subsequent  shift to a more sustainable  balance  of demand  and supply.  
Future  risks though  remain  elevated,  due to significant  uncertainty  regarding  global  and EU growth,  
commodity  prices  amidst  continued  geopolitical  tensions,  and domestic  developments  surrounding  
wages,  exchange  rate and the effect  of tighter  monetary  conditions.  
Non-performi ng loans  
5.4.  As noted  in the previous  Trade  Policy  Review , Albania  had an ongoing  issue with 
non-performing  loans.  We are pleased  to report  that the non-performing  bank loans  ratio dropped  
significantly  from a level of 18.2%  in 2018 to 5.1%  on September  2022.  
5.5.  Since  2015,  in response  to the increased  level of non-performing  loans in the banking  system,  
a national  strategy  to address  this issue was drafted.  In addition,  the Council  of Ministers  and the 
Bank of Albania  approved  a joint action  plan. As part of the implementation  of the inter-institutional  
plan of measures  for the reduction  of non-performing  loans,  important  amendments  in the regulatory  
framework  were approved.  They aimed  to regulate  the prudential  treatment  of the bank's  assets  
owned  after the compulsory  execution  of the collateral,  inclusion  in the credit  registry  of the loans 
subject  to legal processes,  and the rules on sale of the non-performing  loans by banks.  
5.6.  The write off of loans  from bank balance  sheets  contributed  in the reduction of non-performing  
loans  indicators.  Other  measures,  such as the revision  of the bankruptcy  law and other  legal reforms  
envisaged  in the action  plan, helped  in further  reduction  of the non-performing  loans.  
The Tirana  approach,  which  consisted  in out-of-court treatment  of distressed  borrowers  by bank 
regulations,  drafted  under  the assistance  of the World  Bank,  remained  in force up to 
December  2021.  The approach  prompted  banks  to undertake  all possible  initiatives  to address  
common  borrowers  at a relatively short time. 
Notifications  
5.7.  At the beginning  of this year, Albania  was in contact  with the WTO Secretariat  regarding  the 
provision  of technical  assistance  on notifications,  particularly  focused  on agriculture  domestic  
support.  We will contact  the WTO Secretariat  shortly  to present  our formal  request  on technical  
assistance  in order  to organize  the workshops  on this topic in a timely  manner.  
Sanitary  and phytosanitary  measures  
5.8.  Based  on the Council  of Ministers  Decision  No. 789, dated  27 February  2009,  on notifications  
on technical  barriers  to trade  and SPS measures,  the Directorate  responsible  for food safety  is 
responsible  for the notification  on SPS measures  at the WTO Secretariat.  This Directorate  is a focal 
point on these  notifications.  As the WTO Secretariat  report  has stated  Albania  has not done 
notifications  on SPS after 2017.  We would  like to clarify  that since 2017,  the Ministry  responsible  for 
agriculture  has issued  blocking  orders  on SPS measures,  mainly  for the veterinary  sector.  Regarding  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
- 24 - 
 
  the notifications  of the last amendments  on the food law, Albania  will do the notification  procedures  
briefly.  Also, Albania  will update  the contact  persons  responsible  for these  notifications.  
Other  notifications  
5.9.  Albania  took note of the concerns  raised  by Members  on outstanding  notifications  and we would  
like to inform  that Albania  will proceed  shortly  with the submissions.  
Digitalization  
5.10.   The Albanian Government has significantly streamlined bureaucratic procedures for 
businesses operating in Albania. In thi s regard, extensive work has been done regarding the licensing 
procedures, providing efficient online services through the e -Albania government platform. 
To further enhance bilateral cooperation, we welcome Japan's invitation for the exchange of 
experience s, with great appreciation for the excellent dual -sided contribution to digitalization 
processes . 
5.11.   Albania  is ready  to expand  its collaboration,  especially  when  it comes  to the benefits  derived  
from digital  transformation,  a process  that has been underway  in our country  for years,  providing  
quality  services  to citizens  and businesses  on a daily basis.  With the digitization  of the public  
administration,  State services  are now offered  online  through  a single  government  platform,  
e-Albania.  In this regard,  we eagerly  anticipate  Singapore's  invitation  to collaborate  together  in the 
field of digitization,  aiming  to enhance  the business  environment  in both countries.  We express  our 
willing  to exchange  experiences  and best practices  and engage  in a fruitful  partners hip. 
5.12.   Starting  from January  2020,  all the services  of National  Business  Center  (NBC),  are provided  
online  only through  the e-Albania  platform.  The documents  that are provided  by public  
administration  are no longer  required  to be submitted  by commercial  entities to National  Business  
Center,  as these  services  are obtained  through  the electronic  platforms  of covered  systems  of 
documents  with electronic  signature.  This procedure  reduces  time and cost for the commercial  
entities.  
Transparency  
5.13.   Albania  has been focused  on transparency  as an important  step to build constructive  and 
transparent  procedures.  The National  Business  Center  publishes  regularly  and updated  the Albanian  
and English  version  of the legislation  regarding  licensing.  
5.14.   Since  2016, Albania  has a dedicated  website,  www.tregtia.gov.al , that is the official  website  
on trade issues.  The relevant  trade  legislation  is published  in Albanian  and English  version  at this 
website.  Albanian  Investment  and Development  Agency  has a very useful  website,  www.aida.gov.al , 
which  provides  legislation  related  to investments,  both in Albanian  and English  version.  
5.15.   During  the years  2024-2025,  the Albanian  customs  administration  will upgrade  the customs  
website  and conduct  ongoing  steps  to translate  the customs  legislation  in English  version.  
Infringement  of copyright  online  
5.16.   We are pleased  that Members  recognized  the Albanian  progress  regarding  the measures  
taken  on infringement  of copyright.  Regarding  the concerns  on the Albanian  legislation  on online  
copyright  and the fines imposed  by customs  administration,  we would  like to inform  that Albania  has 
already  addressed  these  issues  through  ongoing  reforms.  The Albanian  Criminal  Code addresses  the 
infringement  of copyright  and other  related  rights,  but it does not refer to the reproduction,  
publication,  or usage  of a copyrighted  work on the digital  environment.  The Albanian  Government  
will initiate  the drafting  on the amendment  of the copyright  law, by including  provisions  on online  
copyright  issues,  at the end of 2023.  The new articles  will approximate  both directives  of 
EU legislation.  The process  is planned  to be completed  within  2025.  
5.17.   Regarding  the low figures  on fines on suspected  infringing  products,  imposed  by customs  
administration  in 2021,  we deem  important  to point out that for the period  2021-2022,  Albania  was 
going  through  a post-earthquake  and post-COVID  period.  The difficulties  were also reflected  in the WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  decrease  in the number  of statements.  To prevent  a future  increase  in information  inflow from the 
customs  administration,  the Directory  on Intellectual  Property  Rights  focused  on: 
1. online  training;  
2. updating  the risk profile;  
3. other  activities  focused  on enforcing  the law. 
5.18.   These  measures  gave positive  results  during  2023 with a 400%  increase  in seizure  of 
counterfeit  products,  compared  at 2022.  
Most  favorite  nation  rates  
5.19.   Regarding the concern raised by Members on the difference between MFN rate and the bound 
rate for few tariff lines, Albania confirms this fact and we would like to clarify all WTO Members that 
this difference is due to the correlations and changes in the tariff classification. There is no  intention 
by Albania to be in breach with WTO schedule of commitments. We remain fully committed to respect 
our commitments undertaken under WTO.  
Fair settlement  of disputes  
5.20.   Regarding concerns raised for the fair settlement of disputes with foreign invest ors, in recent 
years, Albania has undertaken a substantial reform of its justice system, which aims to increase 
independence of judges and prosecutors, while improving the transparency and the speed of 
decisions. Due to the number of institutions affected by the reform, there have been delays in the 
past but they are being addressed and reduced.  
5.21.   In July  2023, Albania approved a new law on arbitration which provides firms with 
opportunities to address issues in Albanian as well as foreign arbitration courts.  Albania also has 
signed a number of international investment agreements where issues of dispute settlements are 
often regulated. Such an agreement has been signed with T ürkiye  since 1992. Articles  10 and 11 in 
the agreement provide a regulatory framework for dispute settlement, initially through consultation 
and mediation, and eventually in arbitration.  
5.22.   Regarding the long -standing issues of disputes of some foreign investors Albania is committed 
to solve them through mutual agreement. Citizens and investor s are encouraged to contact public 
institutions directly, or through the "Co -governance" electronic platform. Public institutions are 
required to provide official answers to any questions or issues raised by firms and individuals in a 
timely manner.  
5.23.   Overal l, Albania provides a strong, and improving, regulatory framework to protect and 
safeguard foreign investors' rights and interests.  
Informal  working  group  on gender  
5.24.   Albania has endorsed the Buenos Aires Declaration on Trade and Women's Economic 
Empowerment  and is part of the Informal Working Group.  
5.25.   The "National  Strategy  for Gender  Equality  2021-2030"  (NSGE)  was prepared  on behalf  of the 
Government  of Albania  by the Ministry  of Health  and Social  Protection,  in coordination  and 
consultation  with other  respon sible ministries,  units of local self-government,  independent  
institutions,  civil society  organizations,  academia,  as well as international  organizations,  which  work 
to achieve  gender  equality  and reduce  gender -based  violence  and domestic  violence  in Alban ia. 
5.26.   Conceived  as a continuation  and logically  connected  to the previous  Strategy  for Gender  
Equality  2016-2020,  the strategy  for the period  2021-2030 constitutes  a guide  towards  a society  
where  all individuals  women,  men, young  women,  young  men, girls and boys,  regardless  age, 
gender,  place of birth and residence,  ethnic  or social  group,  disabilities,  religious  affiliation,  
expression  of gender  identity  and sexual  orientation,  as well as other  individual  characteristics,  are 
given  equal  opportunities  to develop  their potentials.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  5.27.   This strategy  is the fourth  of its kind and reflects,  like the previous  strategies,  the priority  and 
special  attention  that the Government  of Albania  pays to achieving  gender  equality,  as well as 
reducing  gender -based  violence  and violence  in families,  considering  their proper  addressing  as 
conditions  towards  a sustainable  development.  Likewise,  the measures  and actions  provided  for in 
this strategy  are combined  or related  to the measures  and actions  provided  for in the Gender  Equality 
Strategy  2020-2025 of the European  Union , further  specified  in the Action  Plan for Gender  
Equality  (GAP III) 2021-2025,  published  on 25 November  2020.  
5.28.   This strategic  document  properly  reflects  the fulfilment  of standards  or obligations  derived  
from other international  documents,  among  the most important  of which  we single  out the 
Convention  on the Elimination  of All Forms  of Discrimination  Against  Women  (CEDAW),  the Beijing  
Declaration  and Platform  for Action,  as well as the Council  of Europe  Conventi on on Preventing  and 
Combating  Violence  against  Women  and Domestic  Violence  (Istanbul  Convention),  etc. 
5.29.   Albania considers the third Trade Policy Review as very important as it will help in orienting 
upcoming reforms in trade.  
5.30.   By concluding, on behalf of Al banian delegation, allow me to thank once again, the Chair, 
H.E. Mr Saqer  Almoqbel, for his excellent chairing of the third TPR of Albania, the discussant, 
H.E. Mr Sabri Bachtobji, for his outstanding remarks on the Albanian economic and trade 
performance and all WTO Members for their appreciation and interest shown for Albania.  
5.31.   A special thanks goes to Mr  Hoppe and Mr  Latrille from the WTO  Secretariat in preparing the 
Secretariat  Report, presenting in detail the achievement and progress made by Albania dur ing the 
period in review.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.32.   I would firstly like to thank the Albanian Deputy Minister,  H.E. Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj, the 
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Albania,  H.E. Ms Vasilika  Hysi, and all members of 
the Albanian delegation for their hard work and commitment.  
5.33.   I would like to thank you, Chair, for this enlightening and enriching experience for myself and 
my entire team.  
5.34.   I would also like to express my sincere to all participating Members and the WTO  Secretariat 
for their substanti ve and valuable contributions to the successful completion of Albania's third Trade 
Policy Review.  
5.35.   Throughout this exercise, Members have shown substantial interest in examining Albania's 
trade policies, submitting more than 90  advance written questions fr om 10 Member  States, to which 
the Albanian delegation has provided responses.  
5.36.   In their interventions, delegations have congratulated Albania on the recent significant 
progress made, namely:  
• The remarkable resilience of the Albanian economy against the external challenges it has 
faced, notably the earthquake in 2019, the COVID -19 pandemic in 2020 -21, and the war 
in Ukraine.  
• The Albanian economy's positive growth, recording the lowest rate of inflation and 
unemployment in the region in 2023.  
• The opening u p of its economy to regional integration processes.  
• The development of e -commerce and the effectiveness of tax policy, thanks to 
considerable efforts to digitize public services.  
5.37.   Participating Members have also welcomed the reforms to tackle corruption and  the informal 
economy, as well as the digital reforms, in particular the implementation of the e -Albania platform, 
via which 95% of public services are provided online.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  5.38.   With respect to Albania's engagement within the WTO, delegations have also underscored its 
active contribution in strengthening the open, rules -based multilateral trading system, and its 
participation in various initiatives, such as those on e -commerce, trade in health, MSMEs, investment 
facilitation, plastics pollution and environmentally s ustainable plastics trade. Albania was also 
commended for depositing its instruments of ratification of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries 
Subsidies in October  2023.  
5.39.   Some delegations have also urged Albania to submit its missing notifications to the relevant 
WTO bodies, especially with respect to sanitary and phytosanitary measures, and agriculture 
notifications.  
5.40.   We take note of the Albanian delegation's commitment to provide these notifications as soon 
as possible.  
5.41.   In response to requests from some delegations  on the status of online intellectual property 
protection, the Albanian delegation gave assurances that the initial drafting of the new copyright law 
articles to address online copyright infringement would begin in December  2023.  
5.42.   To conclude, I would like to join all participants in congratulating the Albanian delegation for 
their invaluable collaboration and strong commitment to providing the clarifications required, and in 
wishing them every success in their efforts to achieve the expected objectives and results.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.43.   First, on behalf of the European  Union, let me thank Deputy Minister , Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj , for 
the comprehensive overview presented on Wednesday and this morning regarding the main 
economic and trade policy developments of Albania tha t have occurred since the last TPR.  
5.44.   We thank the delegation of Albania for their hard work in providing ample replies to our 
advance written questions. We do not have any follow -up questions at this stage.  
5.45.   This review has demonstrated that a number of WT O Members share the EU 's positive views 
about the constructive role Albania plays in the WTO, the reforms carried out since the last 
Trade  Policy Review to improve investment and business climate and the appreciation of Albania 's 
economic resilience during  the period of review, despite of the impact of COVID -19, earthquake 
in 2019 and war in Ukraine.  
5.46.   As the first trading partner of Albania as well as the largest provider of technical and financial 
assistance, the EU has appreciated this opportunity to enga ge with Albania also in this WTO forum. 
This constitutes another relevant dimension of our special relationship, in addition to other fora such 
as the EU -Albania Stabilisation and Association Agreement, the new Growth Plan for the Western 
Balkans, and - most importantly - the EU accession negotiations.   
5.47.   As indicated during the first day of the review, the EU hopes to complete soon the extensive 
exercise of examination of the alignment of Albania's laws with the EU acquis  and to open the first 
cluster covering fundamental issues in the very near future.  
5.48.   We are also looking forward to our continued co -operation in the run -up to MC13, where we 
look forward to working closely with Albania to ensure a successful Ministerial C onference that will 
reinforce the WTO 's role as the cornerstone of the multilateral trading system.  
5.49.   On behalf of the EU, I congratulate Albania for concluding this third review successfully.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.50.   The United  States would like to thank the delegatio n of Albania for your presence Wednesday 
and today, and in addition express our appreciation for the work which has gone into preparation 
for this Trade Policy Review. We appreciate all the effort that goes into a review and all the internal 
coordination e fforts required to respond to all the written questions, so we want to thank you for 
everything you have done to make this review a success. We especially welcome the Secretariat and WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  Government Reports and value the opportunity to gain a clearer sense of t he changes to Albania 's 
trade and investment policies since its last Review.  
5.51.   We would also like to express our thanks for the constructive discussion on both days of 
this TPR. We appreciate Albania 's continued commitment to the open, non -discriminatory,  and rules 
based global multilateral trading system, and we look forward to continuing to work collaboratively 
together on the wide range of issues before us at the WTO.  
5.52.   We note a common theme expressed by Members regarding Albania 's impressive economic 
rebound in the face of significant challenges during the period under review.  
5.53.   The United  States appreciates Albania 's support for notifications transparency as a cosponsor 
of the proposal in the Council for Trade in Goods and the General Council on procedures  to enhance 
transparency and improve compliance with notification requirements under WTO Agreements. In  line 
with the values of this initiative, we encourage Albania to provide additional information on its efforts 
to address copyright infringement, on SPS  measures that are part of Albania 's regulatory framework, 
and on how Albania will lower its applied duty rates to be equal to or lower than its bound duty rates. 
We welcome Albania 's statements today that it will soon be updating and improving its notific ations 
in various areas.  
5.54.   In closing, we would like to commend Albania for its overall support for WTO principles and 
its active engagement at the WTO. We welcome working with Albania on ongoing and future 
initiatives. Please accept our best wishes for cont inued economic growth and stability.  
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The third  Trade Policy Review of Albania has provided us with a good opportunity to better 
understand and discuss the developments of Albania's trade and trade -related policies since its last 
Review in 2016. The Review has benefit ed from the constructive and informative participation of the 
delegation of Albania, headed by H.E.  Mr Endrit  Yzeiraj, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy of 
Albania, as well as the insights and comments provided by the discussant H.E.  Dr Sabri Bachtobji, 
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Tunisia to the WTO. I would like to thank the 
11 delegations that took the floor during the meeting, and those delegations that showed interests 
in through their advance written questions, for their contribution to this exercise.  
6.2.  Members commended Albania's strong economic performance over the review period despite 
facing internal and external challenges such as the 2019 earthquake, the COVID pandemic , and 
geopolitical tensions. Some Members highlighted the importance of regional integration and regional 
value chains, strong labour market outcomes, and increased formalization.  
6.3.  Members positively appreciated Albania's strong commitment to the multilater al trading system 
and highlighted its active participation in a large number of working groups and initiatives including 
the four Joint Statement Initiatives on electronic commerce, investment facilitation, MSMEs, and 
services domestic regulation as well a s trade and environmental sustainability, trade and health, 
and trade and gender. Members also appreciated the Albania ratification of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement in 2016, and the expansion of the product list under the Information Technology 
Agreemen t. In addition, Members highly praised Albania recent acceptance to the Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies.  
6.4.  Several Members welcomed Albania's renewed efforts to accede to the Agreement on 
Government Procurement and encouraged it to submit the initial market  access offer. They noted 
efforts already being undertaken by Albania to further improve its notification record, in particular; 
sanitary and phytosanitary measures; quantitative restrictions; and agriculture.  
6.5.  Many Members referred to Albania's objective o f becoming an EU member and appreciated 
related reforms undertaken, including efforts to improve and formalize the investment environment, 
customs, energy, tourism, and financial services, government procurement; as well as reforms 
undertaken in the areas of justice and anti -corruption. Many Members highlighted the significant 
achievements to digitalize government services via the e -Albania portal in efforts to simplify 
administrative processes and increase transparency.  
6.6.  Some Members raised questions and re quested further information regarding the enforcement 
of online copyrights and infringing goods, standards and SPS measures. They raised other concerns 
including: some applied tariffs seem to exceed the corresponding bound rates; time limit for 
Members to comment on SPS measures; and issues relating to the enforcement of laws and 
transparency on related administrative procedures.  
6.7.  In conclusion, the delegation of Albania has clearly demonstrated that it places a high value on 
the Trade Policy Review Mechanis m and the Multilateral Trading System through its active 
engagement over this two -day meeting.  
6.8.  Finally, Members look forward to receiving answers to any outstanding and follow -up questions, 
if any, within the customary one  month, at which time this review will be concluded.  
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  7  ADOPTION OF TPRB'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2023  
CHAIRPERSON  
7.1.  I would now like to ask delegations to consider the TPRB's  Annual  Report for 2023, which was 
distributed on 23  October  2023 as WTO document WT/TPR/W/234 . One delegation submitted 
written comments  by the deadline . A revision of the Annual  Report was issued on 1  November  2023 
as document WT/TPR/W/234/Rev.1 . Since then, one small grammatical correction was made to the 
last sentence in  paragraph  11, as the referenced workshop now has already taken place. That is, 
the phrase "will take place" was changed to "took place" in the sentence "In November  2023, a TPR 
Best Practices Workshop for LDCs will take place in China".  I have been inform ed that there were 
some other comments to the document  from the United  States this morning.  
UNITED  STATES  
7.2.  First, let me apologize for communicating our propose d edits to the Annual  Report so late. We 
hope that our suggestions are taken in the spirit they w ere drafted in, and that Members will agree 
that they improve the readability of the Reports. We have suggested changes to paragraphs  7, 11, 
and 13, which we feel improve the readability and objectivity of the Reports. I will briefly describe 
these changes  and w e stand ready to discuss these changes in detail with any Members and hope 
they are not controversial in nature.  
7.3.  In paragraph  7, we have suggested two changes for the purposes of minimizing redundancy 
and making the language more factual in nature. In paragraph  11, we have suggested a deletion. 
In paragraph  13, we have suggested a change to make the Report language more objective.  
7.4.  I would be happy to engage with any Member who has questions or would like to discuss the 
changes.  
CHINA  
7.5.  The comments from the United  States are well noted, and we will bring these to our capital 
and give the feedback.  
7.6.  I wanted to take this opportunity to thank the Secretariat and you Chair for the well -written 
Annual  Report and the hard work done throughout  this year, together we have brought the value of 
transparency into the Member's TPRs, the Appraisal, and the Monitoring Exercises. Moreover,  the 
Secretariat and Members are working together to implement its outcome document of the Appraisal . 
I think this is very good momentum.   
7.7.  Next year China will have its ninth Trade Policy Review, we are getting into full gear for this 
activity,  and we look forward a fruitful  cooperation with the Secretariat, under the leadership of 
Director  Keck.  
CHAIRPERSON  
7.8.  In light with the editorial comments we have just received from the United  States, a new 
revised version of the draft Annual Report will be distributed in document WT/TPR/W/234/Rev.2 . 
I suggest that Members take the time until 28  November  2023 to review this new version. Following 
this period, the Report will be considered adopted and distributed as WTO document WT/TPR/509 .  
7.9.  Personally, I would like to add that I feel strongly that Members should ensure that the 
Secretariat will have the necessary resources to help reduce the backlog in reviews – as evident 
from Annex  IV of the Annual  Report, which lists 43  Members as candidates for review in 2025 – 
while keeping up the high quality of its reports. I believe we all agree on the importance of the 
transparency function of the Organization and the key role that the TPRM plays in this regard.  WT/TPR/M/449 • Albania  
 
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  7.10.   With this, I declare the meeting closed. I thank you all for your participation and please note 
that the next meeting of the Trade Policy Review Body will  be held on 6 and 8  December  2023, when 
the TPRB will discuss the TPR of Hong  Kong, China.  
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