Tourism is one of the most important sectors for Albania and provides significant income to the state budget, entrepreneurship budget and sector budget. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Economic Impact of Travel and Tourism 2022 Report, in 2021 the tourism sector recorded a direct contribution of ALL 321.3 billion to the GDP, with an overall contribution of 17.4% of the total economy. positioned the sector as one of the biggest contributors to economic development. In 2021, the tourism sector created 226,100 new jobs; This corresponds to approximately 20% of total employment in Albania. Regarding Visitor Impact, International Visitor Expenditures accounted for ALL 255.3 billion (43.6% of total exports), while Domestic Visitor Expenditures accounted for ALL 62.1 billion.
Why Tourism Investment?
Corporate Tax Exemption
Accommodation facilities such as "Four and Five Star Hotels" and accommodation facilities with internationally recognized and registered trademarks, structures that have gained special status - have gained special status until December 2024 from the start of their operations, but not exceeding 3 years from the date of gaining the special status - 10 years It is exempt from corporate tax for a period of time.
Infrastructure Impact Tax Exemption
"Special status five-star hotels" accommodation facilities with an internationally recognized and registered trademark are exempt from infrastructure impact tax.
Building Tax Exemption
Accommodation buildings that are "four and five-star, special status hotels/holidays" as defined in the legislation in the field of tourism and that have internationally recognized and registered trademarks are outside the scope of the tax on buildings.
Priority Areas in Development
“Priority Areas for Development” are regional and/or local local government areas that are considered to be of special importance and areas in need of special support in order to develop the economy, increase employment, improve living conditions and use public resources and infrastructure efficiently. It is envisaged that the state will assume the developer role in these priority areas and that the state will also be involved in various forms of partnership.
Public real estate or local government units located in these priority areas will come under the administration of the Ministry of Tourism within two months from the approval of the area. In case of investment in these areas, it is envisaged that the real estate will be disposed of for the construction of accommodation facilities and other tourism structures. The usability period of this real estate is up to 99 years.
• Albanian Alps - A trekking-based destination related to nature, activity and sports tourism.
• Its combination with the southern coastline and mountains. The new airport in the south will bring a significant improvement.
• Marinas and ports have a high potential to attract foreign tourists. Considering the increase in sea entry in Albania, there is the opportunity to develop 6 new port points with high usage.
• Tirana will continue to develop its infrastructure to become an attractive hub for regional business events and weekend visitors, as well as a center of culture and tourism.
