The European currency has continued its downward trend during the first weeks of this year. Data from the Bank of Albania show that the euro is being exchanged at 96.5 lek, marking a sharp decline during today’s trading session.
This represents one of the lowest levels recorded, following late December when the euro was exchanged at 96.4 lek.
This development is seen as an indicator that tourism in Albania is becoming year-round. The strengthening of the lek has also been supported by an increase in foreign investments as well as remittances.
The weakening of the euro is considered a positive factor by the Bank of Albania, as it directly contributes to keeping consumer prices under control. This trend is also beneficial for individuals who have loans denominated in euros, as they will pay less in lek terms. A strong lek against the euro also benefits the government, which faces lower costs in servicing external debt. Those directly affected negatively are exporters, who sell their goods in euros and therefore generate lower profits when converted into lek.
According to official data published so far, during the first nine months of 2025, the Bank of Albania purchased a total of €825.6 million in the domestic foreign exchange market. Meanwhile, it is projected that in 2026, foreign currency withdrawals will reach €450 million, increasing by nearly €100 million. This amount will be used both to strengthen foreign exchange reserves and to help maintain exchange rate stability.
