Albania’s economy will remain on a low growth trajectory unless more structural reforms can be implemented-BMI

Recently published research from Business Monitor International, "Albania Country Risk Report Q2 2015" highlights that Albania's economy will remain on a low growth trajectory over the coming years, unless more structural reforms can be implemented to tackle longstanding issues of competitiveness and corruption. In addition, the core view include;* Household spending will be the main driver of real GDP growth in 2015. This is a concern, given that improvements to consumer spending patterns are more driven by external price developments than fundamental improvements to household finances. * The government's fiscal position will remain perilous, with the public debt load expected to remain above 70% of GDP. * Tepid external demand from key eurozone trading partners, inefficiencies in key export industries and collapsing global oil prices suggests Albanian exports will struggle in 2015. * Albania's central bank will remain dovish in 2015, due to declining inflation expectations, weak bank lending and relatively subdued domestic demand. * Shaky debt dynamics, political infighting and elevated tensions with neighbouring Serbia will persuade the EU against beginning formal EU accession talks with Albania this year.  BMI