French economists show optimism for Albania’s economy

TIRANA, July 13עAlbania offers great opportunities for foreign investors and it could become a second China in terms of its economic growth.” This was the conclusion by French economists, recently published in “Le Nouvel Economiste”, a French economics magazine.
The article focused on the country’s economy and the opportunities it offers to investors.
“The Albanian market is very suitable and offers greats chances for European industrialists who are facing fierce competition elsewhere,” explains Francis Mer, former minister of economy in the cabinet of Jean Pierre Raffarin. “Albania can become a second China in regard to its labor resources, much cheaper, but also more skilled and motivated than in the West.”
In addition, Mer adds that Albania, which became a NATO member this April and has applied for EU candidate status, is more competitive than other developing countries such as Tunisia and China itself.
The article analyzes recent reforms taken by the Albanian government such as the flat income tax of 10% to boost investments and business enterprises, and major projects involving energy and road infrastructure. Transport costs from Albania were regarded as much lower than the ones from Asian competitors.
Mer called on Europe to help Albania by continuing their support for the country’s sustainable development.
“European industrialists could benefit from great opportunities in the Little China of the Balkans,” concludes the article.