From January to November 2024, Kosovo imported goods worth over €302.3 million from Albania, marking a significant rise in trade relations between the two countries. According to data from Kosovo Customs, the primary imports consist of fruits and vegetables, reflecting the strong agricultural output of Albania.
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| The flags of Kosovo and Albania and in the background crates of tangerines, as one of the products that is widely exported to Kosovo and is not cultivated there due to the climate |
Key Agricultural Imports
Among the agricultural products, tomatoes lead the list, with imports valued at over €3.3 million. The same amount was spent on peppers and watermelons, each contributing significantly to the trade figures. Another popular fruit, mandarins, although not individually listed in customs data, is widely imported from Albania, particularly during the festive season at year-end.
Interestingly, December brought a temporary challenge when the European Union blocked several shipments of Albanian mandarins over concerns about harmful pesticides. Kosovo, in turn, detained six shipments for testing. Following thorough analyses, the mandarins were confirmed to be safe for consumption, with their total import value exceeding €2 million.
Non-Agricultural Imports
In addition to agricultural goods, Kosovo also imports substantial amounts of construction materials and energy from Albania. During the first 11 months of 2024, the value of imported white cement reached over €37 million. Meanwhile, electricity imports amounted to an impressive €62.7 million, further cementing Albania as a critical supplier in this sector.
Albania Among Kosovo’s Top Trade Partners
The year 2024 has seen a notable increase in imports from Albania, placing it among Kosovo’s top five trade partners. This growing economic collaboration underscores the deepening ties between the two countries, with agriculture, construction, and energy forming the backbone of their trade relationship.
As the two nations continue to strengthen their economic partnership, the trade figures for 2024 highlight the potential for further cooperation and mutual growth in the years to come.