World Bank Lowers Albania’s 2026 Growth Forecast to 3.4%

The World Bank has adjusted its outlook for Albania, stating that GDP growth (rritja e PBB-së) is expected to slow to 3.4% in 2026. This represents a reduction from the earlier projection and follows an estimated economic expansion (zgjerimi ekonomik) of 3.9% recorded in 2025. The revision reflects updated macroeconomic assessments published in the institution’s latest regional report.

For 2027, the forecast has been slightly improved, with growth projections (parashikimet e rritjes) rising to 3.7%. This adjustment suggests expectations of a moderate recovery after the anticipated slowdown. The updated figures were included in the April edition of the Global Economic Prospects report, which evaluates economic trends across Europe and Central Asia.

Across the Western Balkans, the institution also revised its regional outlook. The regional growth rate (norma rajonale e rritjes) for 2026 is now projected at 2.9%, reflecting a decrease compared to earlier expectations. This follows an estimated regional economic performance (performanca ekonomike rajonale) of 3.9% in 2025, indicating a broader deceleration affecting multiple economies in the region.

Recent national data supports the trend of moderate but slowing growth. According to preliminary figures released by INSTAT, Albania’s economy recorded a GDP increase (rritje e PBB-së) of 3.79% in 2025. These figures provide the statistical basis for the revised outlook and highlight the country’s position within a shifting regional economic environment.

Key Albanian Vocabulary

rritja e PBB-së GDP growth
zgjerimi ekonomik economic expansion
parashikimet e rritjes growth projections
norma rajonale e rritjes regional growth rate
performanca ekonomike rajonale regional economic performance
rritje e PBB-së GDP increase

Striking glass-and-steel facade of the World Bank main complex, located at 1818 H Street NW in the heart of Washington, D.C.