TIRANA, April 8 /ATA/ – The Customs Administration on Wednesday hosted a forum with Austrian businesses operating in Albania, focusing on planned reforms, digitalisation and alignment with European Union standards as part of its 2026 agenda.
The Customs-Business Forum aimed to advance key initiatives including the rollout of a “One-stop Shop” customs system, streamlining procedures and improving transparency to foster a more predictable business environment.
Customs Director General Besmir Beja said the administration was committed to strengthening its role as a reliable partner to business as Albania moves closer to EU norms.
“We are guided by the principle of easing legitimate trade through full digitalisation and simplified procedures,” Beja said, noting that all services for businesses are now delivered online, boosting efficiency, transparency and processing speed.
He outlined plans for a broader digital and institutional overhaul, with a focus on data-driven, risk-based operations and the use of artificial intelligence to improve oversight.
Officials said the ASYCUDA system will be upgraded to a more advanced version featuring 25 new modules in line with EU standards. Full alignment of Albania’s customs legislation with EU rules is expected by 2026 under Chapter 29.
Austria’s ambassador to Albania, Monika Zach, welcomed the progress, saying such forums help strengthen communication between institutions and investors.
“They contribute to a more predictable and transparent environment for foreign businesses,” she said.
Representatives of Austrian companies praised the Customs Administration’s role in Albania’s EU integration process and highlighted the professionalism of its staff as a key factor in improving the business climate.
The Customs Administration said it would continue to prioritise dialogue with the business community while pressing ahead with reforms supporting economic growth and EU integration.
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