The Albanian Council of Ministers approved a set of Decisions, including DCM no. 337 from 31 May 2023, and DCM nos. 416, 417, and 148 from July 7, 2023. These decisions, which have immediate effect upon publication in the official gazette, are aimed at implementing the provisions of Law no. 58/2022. This law introduces a range of tax and legal incentives designed to promote the development of technological and scientific parks for high-tech and innovation industries, research and development (R&D) activities, and the growth of scientific and technology professionals in Albania.
Under Law no. 58/2022, developers and users of these parks will enjoy several advantageous benefits, including expedited processing of permits and licenses within 15 to 30 working days, government-funded infrastructure development up to the park borders, the designation of the supply of Albanian goods to these parks as exports with a 0% tax rate, and a corporate income tax rate of 0% for 15 consecutive years from the commencement of operations.
Additionally, R&D personnel within these parks will be exempt from all taxes for a period of 10 years, and they will pay health and social insurance contributions based on the national minimum monthly salary, irrespective of their declared gross salary. Furthermore, the supply of goods, equipment, and services used in the parks for innovative product development will be VAT exempt. Construction within these parks will be free from the tax on infrastructure, and buildings within the parks will be exempt from real estate taxes for a decade. Lastly, the government may refund training costs for R&D personnel, further encouraging the growth of technology and innovation in Albania.
