FIAA and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy Discuss EU Accession Reforms and Sector Priorities
The Foreign Investors Association of Albania (FIAA) held a consultation meeting with representatives of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy to discuss key recommendations from the FIAA White Book 2025–2029 and their relevance to Albania’s ongoing EU accession process.
The discussion brought together representatives from FIAA member companies operating in the energy, telecommunications, mining and hydrocarbons sectors, providing an opportunity to exchange views on legislative reforms, implementation challenges and the business community’s role in supporting Albania’s European integration agenda.
Opening the meeting, FIAA emphasized the importance of maintaining structured public-private dialogue throughout the accession process, noting that while legislative approximation remains a key priority, effective implementation and regulatory predictability are equally important for the business environment.
Representatives of the Ministry provided an overview of the progress achieved in aligning Albania’s legislation with the EU acquis, highlighting that approximately 60% of the negotiation and alignment process has already been completed. The Ministry underlined that the process extends beyond legislative changes and requires institutional adaptation, administrative reform and active engagement from the private sector.
A significant part of the discussion focused on digital transformation and telecommunications. Industry representatives welcomed the extensive consultation process undertaken in recent years and stressed the need for clear implementation guidelines, realistic transition periods and continued dialogue on secondary legislation. The Ministry presented ongoing work related to the Digital Services Act, Digital Markets Act, Cyber Resilience Act and other digital policy initiatives that will shape Albania’s future regulatory framework.
Energy sector developments were also discussed, including recent amendments to the Power Sector Law and upcoming reforms in energy efficiency, energy performance of buildings and related EU-aligned legislation. Participants exchanged views on the importance of balancing regulatory compliance, investment incentives and long-term energy security objectives.
The meeting further addressed challenges and opportunities in the mining and hydrocarbons sectors. Industry representatives reiterated concerns regarding regulatory predictability and long-standing issues raised through previous editions of the White Book. The Ministry confirmed plans for broader reviews of both the Mining Law and the Hydrocarbon Law, accompanied by dedicated consultation processes with stakeholders.
Fiscal aspects affecting strategic sectors were also raised, with participants emphasizing the need for continued coordination between sector ministries and fiscal authorities to ensure coherent implementation and greater legal certainty for investors.
Throughout the discussion, both FIAA and the Ministry reaffirmed the importance of constructive cooperation between government institutions and the business community. Participants agreed that Albania’s EU accession process presents a unique opportunity to strengthen competitiveness, improve the investment climate and prepare businesses for participation in the European single market.
FIAA remains committed to contributing expertise and practical recommendations through the White Book process and other dialogue platforms, supporting reforms that enhance Albania’s business environment and accelerate the country’s path towards European Union membership.