The European Union has assessed that Albania has met the criteria for closing Chapter 20 of its EU accession negotiations, which covers enterprise and industrial policy. However, Brussels has outlined several outstanding obligations, including repealing the strategic investment law, strengthening anti-corruption measures and ensuring sustainable tourism development.
In its common position dated October 9, the EU welcomed Albania’s alignment with European policies on small and medium-sized enterprises and the adoption of its Business and Investment Development Strategy. Albania is expected to monitor the strategy’s implementation and regularly report on progress.
One of the EU’s key demands is that Albania repeal its strategic investment law by the end of 2026 and adopt a unified investment law fully aligned with EU legislation. The new framework should support a comprehensive investment regime, including public-private partnerships and cooperation between businesses.
Brussels also called for better tourism data and monitoring, stronger protection of natural and cultural heritage, and development that benefits local communities. Further alignment is required in construction, mining, critical raw materials, defence and the steel industry.
Despite the progress, the EU stressed the need to tackle corruption and the informal economy by strengthening institutions, improving transparency and accountability in public services, digitising property registration, and ensuring transparent public procurement.
Although Chapter 20 does not require further negotiations at this stage, the EU will continue monitoring Albania’s legal alignment and implementation of reforms throughout the accession process. Brussels also reserves the right to revisit the chapter if necessary.
