TIRANA, Aug 7 /ATA/ - The appreciation of the Albanian national currency, lek, since 2018 reflects deeper structural changes in the country’s economy, including increased exports, tourism, and remittance inflows, Central Bank Governor Gent Sejko said in a media interview on Thursday.

Sejko noted that the lek’s strength in the domestic foreign exchange market aligns with positive economic developments, helping to ease inflationary pressures, stabilize prices, and narrow the trade deficit.

To support this trend, the Bank of Albania has carried out strategic foreign currency purchases to boost its reserves.

Sejko also hailed Albania’s upcoming full integration into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) as a “major step toward Europe.”

As of October 7, 2025, Albania’s banking system will be fully operational within SEPA, significantly reducing cross-border transaction costs, potentially saving citizens and businesses up to 20 million euros annually.

Key priorities for sustaining economic growth, Sejko added, include formalizing the economy, reducing cash usage, expanding financial inclusion, and attracting foreign investment by leveraging modern payment infrastructure and macroeconomic stability.

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