Food spending takes one-fifth of Albania’s economy

Food spending in Albania reached 20.4% of GDP in 2025, the highest share in the Western Balkans and more than three times the EU average.

Across the European Union, the figure was 6.2%.

Food prices in Albania were also about 3% above the EU average, while consumption per person remained below half the EU level.

Albanians spent about €5 billion on food, or €2,349 per person.

The figures show how heavily basic needs still weigh on household finances.