Albania posts state budget surplus

Albania has recorded a massive budget surplus of nearly 53 billion leks during the first half of the year.

Official figures show total government income reached 410 billion leks, rising sharply due to a boom in domestic sales tax and income tax collections.

Higher consumer spending and better wage reporting helped tax collectors beat their six month revenue targets by five percent.

At the same time, public spending grew by seven percent but remained below official forecasts, saving the state money.

The strong financial results give the government more cash to fund major infrastructure projects without needing to borrow money.