Foreign investors and local entrepreneurs often ask whether Albanian companies need import or export licenses to trade internationally.
Albania’s open economy allows companies to engage in cross-border trade, but certain goods are subject to licensing, permits, or additional compliance requirements.
Whether an Albanian company needs an import or export license depends on the type of product, its origin or destination, and applicable international agreements.
When Are Import Export Licenses Required
Albanian companies do not need a general import or export license to trade most goods across borders. However, licenses are mandatory for specific categories of regulated goods, including:
– Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
– Chemical substances and hazardous materials
– Weapons, ammunition, and dual-use goods
– Live animals and animal products
– Certain agricultural products subject to quotas or health controls
Companies importing or exporting these regulated goods must apply for licenses or permits from the relevant Albanian ministries or agencies, such as the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, or the National Agency for Natural Resources.
Customs Registration and EORI
Every company involved in international trade must be registered with Albanian customs authorities. Companies may also need an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number to trade with the European Union, depending on their trading partners and customs arrangements.
Customs clearance requires submission of commercial invoices, packing lists, transport documents, and proof of compliance with licensing or certification requirements for regulated goods.
Practical Considerations
Foreign-owned companies in Albania can engage in import and export activities under the same legal framework as domestic companies. No special licensing is required simply because a company is foreign-owned.
However, companies must ensure compliance with product-specific laws, customs declarations, and VAT/tax regulations applicable to cross-border transactions. Hiring a licensed customs broker is highly recommended to navigate Albanian customs procedures efficiently.
Import export licenses for Albanian companies are required only for certain regulated goods, while most products can be traded without a special license. Companies must ensure compliance with customs, tax, and product-specific regulations to avoid fines or delays.