The Albanian lek strengthened to a record level against the the European single currency on April 1, at ALL95.8 to the euro, its lowest rate on record, according to Bank of Albania data.

The lek rose by ALL0.23 against the euro from the previous day. It has risen about 1% since the start of the year and 3.4% compared with a year earlier, as pressure on the exchange rate continues.

Monitor reported that a brief uptick in demand for euros late in March had pushed the currency slightly above ALL96, but the rebound proved short-lived. Demand subsequently dropped, while foreign currency supply remained steady, driving the euro back down.

Albania experiences seasonal increases in demand for the lek. However, this year the local currency’s appreciation extended into early 2026, an unusual trend compared with historical patterns. This is likely to intensify in the coming months as tourism inflows rise.

The central bank has been actively intervening to limit the currency’s strength, purchasing more than €1bn in 2025 to boost reserves and stabilise the market.