Albanian Economy Watch: Eurostat data show Albania’s industrial output fell 15.3% from 2021 to 2025, with a brief uptick in 2022 followed by three straight years of decline—hit by a stronger lek, higher labor costs, and cheaper Asian competition, while growth has leaned more on tourism, construction, and property. Energy Storage Deal: VIM Energy secured a battery-storage contract worth about SEK190 million for Moldova’s state-owned CET-Nord, covering design, supply, installation, and commissioning of a full BESS, with delivery targeted for Q1 2027. Inflation Outlook: Albania’s central bank says the latest inflation rise should be temporary, with price growth expected to ease back toward its 3% target, though it flags risks from energy prices and geopolitics. Transport Costs: Bus operators warn they may cut services if fuel compensation approved for March–May isn’t paid, citing delays in receiving 50 lek per liter and asking to extend the subsidy while fuel prices stay high. Aviation Infrastructure Dispute: Swiss firm MABCO Constructions formally opposes Albania’s early termination of the Vlora International Airport concession and asks for good-faith negotiations. Food Safety at Borders: Bulgaria’s food safety agency ordered an 11.6-ton shipment of peppers (from North Macedonia) returned after pesticide residues exceeded permitted levels; checks also covered imports from Kosovo and Albania. Workforce Snapshot: Albania’s highest-paid roles are managers, university-trained specialists (especially IT), and armed-forces personnel, while agriculture remains at the bottom.