As the May 11 elections approach, political parties have intensified their meetings with the electorate, many of which have been with businesses. During these meetings, they have also unveiled promises to improve the business climate in the country.
But what do they promise? The Socialists are seeking a fourth mandate, which implies the continuation of the policies undertaken so far.
The Socialist Party promises fiscal peace for business, including debt forgiveness for up to 10 years; 0% tax for small businesses. It has declared war on informality and promised to reassess fiscal exemptions.
Democrats propose a completely different fiscal policy.
They promise the return of the 10% flat tax; a 5% tax for priority sectors; a 0% tax for businesses with a turnover of up to 18 million lek per year; a reduction in VAT on energy and food; a review of all tax policies and stability in fiscal legislation, which means that laws related to taxes and duties do not change frequently.
But what is the state of business today? To understand whether the political promises have been addressed to the majority of entrepreneurs.
Data shows that the number of active enterprises in our country has exceeded 117 thousand, marking an increase of almost 4 thousand businesses or 3.4% in the span of one year. These are mainly small and medium-sized businesses, which do not require large capital to start or in-depth market analysis.
In recent years, the Albanian economy has been oriented more towards tourism and construction and less towards manufacturing.
Of the 117,000 total enterprises at the end of 2023, over 97,000 or almost 83% of the total were in trade, services, accommodation and construction. Meanwhile, the number of businesses in the manufacturing and processing industry is small and has shrunk in recent years.
(A2 Televizion)
A2 CNN Livestream
MUND TE LEXONI GJITHASHTU
