Around 90% of payments in Albania are still made in cash. With this level, the country ranks fourth in the world for the use of physical money in daily transactions for goods and services.

A new global report for 2025 positions Albania alongside some of the least digitalized economies in the world. According to the Forex.se report, Ethiopia and Gambia lead the ranking with about 95% of transactions made in cash, while Albania follows closely with 90%.

The index highlights that the high use of cash in Albania is linked to factors such as low banking inclusion, limited internet access in rural areas, and the lack of digital payment infrastructure—particularly POS terminals for small businesses.

At the same level as Albania (90%) are Cambodia, Laos, Lebanon, Nepal, and Pakistan, showing a strong dependence on cash payments. Meanwhile, Iraq and Iran stand slightly lower, with 85% of transactions conducted in physical money.

On the opposite end of the ranking, the most developed countries are approaching an almost cashless economy. Sweden (14%), Norway (10%), and South Korea (10%) are examples of societies where digital infrastructure is well-developed and electronic payments are the main standard.

The United States (16%) and the United Kingdom (20%) are also following the same trend, supported by high consumer trust in online systems and advanced anti-fraud measures.