Germany is currently Albania’s second most important destination for the exports of textiles and one of the country’s main trade partners
TIRANA, Nov.1 – The Albanian government says it is committed to further increase cooperation with Germany through its GTZ office in Tirana to improve the competitiveness of the country’s garment and footwear manufacturers and turn Albania into a net exporter for European and world markets. This was confirmed last weekend by Economy and Trade Minister Ilir Meta during a conference on the challenges and perspectives of the Albania’s clothing industry held as part of the Albanian Textile Week.
Stressing the importance this industry has on the Albanian economy, with around one-quarter of total exports and 18 percent of employees in the industry sector, Meta said the clothes and shoe industry will remain a top priority for government to increase employment rates among young women.
He called on foreign companies to take the risk of investing in this promising and developing industry in Albania, mentioning the recent legal protection foreign investors have been granted even in case of the ongoing land dispute issue.
Some of Albania’s advantages compared to other regional and European countries include the low tax burden, minimum wage and its young population.
Addressing the conference, German Ambassador to Albania Carola M
