Comparative Economic and Fiscal analysis, Albania & Kosovo (2022–2025)

Kosovo and Albania, two countries in the Western Balkans, share similar economic challenges, including economic structure, institutional reforms, and EU integration.

However, they differ in fiscal capacity, the structure of economic sectors, and progress in structural reforms.

This analysis aims to compare their economic performance for the period 2022–2025, focusing on economic growth, public finances, the labor market, the financial system, and the balance of payments.

The macroeconomic and fiscal developments in Albania and Kosovo in recent years have reflected multiple impacts: from post-pandemic recovery and the repercussions of the war in Ukraine, to internal dynamics of structural reforms and the challenges of European integration.

In this context, a comparative analysis of the two economies during the 2022–2025 period provides a deeper insight into the direction, pace, and sustainability of the economic and fiscal policies pursued.

This report aims to identify the main similarities and differences between the two countries, assess the impact of national strategies on economic growth, employment, investment, and public finances, and analyze the institutional capacity to manage the transition toward sustainable and inclusive development.

Through a standardized analytical structure, the report helps create a comparative basis useful for institutional actors, researchers, international organizations, and the general public.

In particular, the analysis seeks to contribute to improved fiscal transparency and enhance the process of policy design and monitoring in both countries.

Description

This report aims to provide a comparative and in-depth analysis of economic and fiscal developments in Albania and Kosovo during the 2022–2025 period.

The report focuses specifically on key macroeconomic indicators, fiscal policies, and budget performance dynamics to understand the similarities and differences between the two countries. Its goal is to support decision-making, policy formulation, and public dialogue on economic development paths and fiscal consolidation.

The analysis provides an objective and structured framework to evaluate the effectiveness of economic and financial policies, highlighting challenges, best practices, and lessons learned in each country. This is particularly relevant in the context of European integration, where harmonizing sustainable practices is essential for long-term progress.

The specific objectives of the report are to:

  • Assess the comparative economic and fiscal performance of Albania and Kosovo;
  • Identify commonalities and differences in their economic policy approaches;
  • Extract good practices and applicable lessons in similar contexts;
  • Provide evidence-based recommendations to improve fiscal and development policies.

The target audience for this report includes:

  • Policymakers in the fields of economics, public finance, and regional development;
  • National and local public institutions;
  • International development and financial organizations;
  • Researchers, experts, and civil society actors;
  • Economic journalists and the broader interested public.

The data sources used include:

  • Annual reports from the Ministries of Finance and National Statistical Institutes of Albania and Kosovo;
  • Data from Central Banks, the IMF, World Bank, and Eurostat;
  • Government strategic documents, budget laws, and medium-term expenditure frameworks.

The report seeks to foster informed debate on economic and fiscal reforms and contribute to strengthening analytical and policy capacities in both countries, aligned with European integration and sustainable development goals.