Open Dialogue with Austrian Businesses on Customs Reforms and EU Integration

Tirana, 08.04.2026 – The Customs–Business Forum was held today with representatives of Austrian companies operating in Albania, serving as an important platform for dialogue between the Customs Administration and the business community. The forum, organized by Advantage Austria in cooperation with BLOconomy and with the support of the General Directorate of Customs, focused on strengthening cooperation, facilitating trade, and accelerating reforms towards European integration.

Discussions focused on key policies and customs reforms for 2026, with particular emphasis on the digitalization of procedures, the advancement of the “Customs Single Window” project, alignment with European Union standards, and transparency of customs tariffs.

In his remarks, the Director General of Customs, Mr. Besmir Beja, reaffirmed the commitment of the Customs Administration as a reliable partner for businesses in the process towards European standards. “We rely on the principle of further facilitating fair trade through the full digitalization of services and simplification of procedures. Currently, 100% of services for businesses are provided online, significantly increasing speed, transparency, and reducing processing time,” he stated.

He further presented the vision for the full digital and institutional transformation of Albanian customs, emphasizing the role of Artificial Intelligence in increasing efficiency and accuracy of controls:
“We aim to transition towards a predictive, data-driven, and risk-based customs administration. Artificial intelligence will reduce unnecessary controls and strengthen the fight against smuggling and fiscal fraud,” he added, noting that initial successful testing has already begun in cooperation with AKSHI and Microsoft.

It was also announced that the ASYCUDA system will be upgraded to an advanced version with 25 new modules in line with EU standards, and that the process of full alignment of Albanian customs legislation with that of the European Union will continue throughout 2026, within the framework of Chapter 29.

The forum was also attended by the Austrian Ambassador to Albania, Ms. Monika Zach, who praised the progress of the Albanian Customs Administration: “Such forums create a direct bridge of communication between institutions and businesses, contributing to a more predictable and transparent environment for foreign investors,” she emphasized.

Representatives of Austrian businesses highlighted the role of the Customs Administration as one of the leading institutions in Albania’s EU integration process, also underlining the dedication and professionalism of customs staff as key elements in improving the business climate in the country.

The Albanian Customs Administration remains committed to continuing open dialogue with the business community and advancing reforms that support economic development and European integration.