Albanian exporters ask international institutions for expertise

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The ongoing depreciation of the euro is taking its toll on Albanian exporters, and they point to the inflow of criminal funds into the national economy as a significant factor behind the currency’s decline.

Export associations have voiced their concerns through a joint letter addressed to international financial institutions, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the World Bank, the Ministry of Finance and Economy, and the Bank of Albania. They are urging these institutions to take necessary measures, as the repercussions of the euro depreciation are expected to be felt over an extended period.

In the letter, the exporters acknowledge that a strengthened national currency would be favorable if it resulted from a robust economy, driven by increased productivity, enhanced competitiveness, higher foreign direct investments, and remittance inflows.

However, they express their frustration with the severe and temporary fluctuations that have inflicted considerable damage on both exporters and the tourism sector. These fluctuations seem to be influenced by illicit or criminal funds circulating within the Albanian economy, particularly in non-transparent assets and lucrative businesses.

Looking ahead, the exporters fear that these fluctuations might exacerbate in the years to come. Therefore, they emphasize the importance of collaborating with international experts to develop and implement export-friendly policies. This includes fiscal and monetary measures, as well as measures aimed at reducing costs and fiscal burdens.

Despite the challenges, the exporters remain optimistic that the expertise of these institutions, accumulated through extensive experience with numerous member states, can prove invaluable in addressing the situation.

According to the exporters, the depreciation of the euro is currently at around 20%, with an annual depreciation rate of approximately 13%.

During discussions with the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Albania, export associations have repeatedly expressed their concerns about the mounting losses suffered due to the significant depreciation of the euro.

In response, the Albanian government has taken some measures to aid exporters, such as approving the Normative Act to defer advance profit tax payments until December 2023. Additionally, the Ministry of Finance and Economy expedited VAT refund procedures. Despite these efforts, exporters maintain that the implemented measures have not yielded the anticipated easing effects.

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