bne IntelliNews – Albania needs reforms for e-commerce to thrive, says World Bank

Albania needs to implement crucial reforms in a number of areas, including online payments and logistics, if its burgeoning e-commerce sector is to grow, according to a World Bank analysis published on January 21.

Online markets have grown during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, with 20% of local businesses surveyed by the Development Bank either starting or expanding their online business activities during the crisis.

The Albanian e-commerce sector is currently small: only 7% of Albanians buy products online, according to the World Bank’s 2017 Findex survey, compared to 14% in the whole Western Balkans region.

“E-commerce can be an important asset for Albania. Online sales channels allow companies to reach more customers at home and abroad. Customers benefit from more convenience and more choice. Sectors that enable e-commerce can create new jobs, including in technology companies, logistics and online payments,” the report said.

Specifically for Albania, e-commerce can connect the small domestic economy to larger and more prosperous markets abroad like in EU countries, connecting rural to urban areas.

However, she highlighted a wide range of areas in need of reform: logistics and customs; digital connectivity; online payments; Private sector skills and e-commerce regulatory framework.