Tirana Bank has joined IFC’s Global Trade Finance Program (GTFP), on April 27, 2026, reinforcing both institutions' shared commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth and private sector development in Albania. The GTFP helps local banks expand financing for cross-border trade by offering payment risk guarantees and managing payment risks. As part of this partnership, IFC will provide a $5 million trade finance guarantee facility to Tirana Bank, enabling the bank to finance more imports and exports, increase partnerships with international banks, and support Albanian businesses in reaching new global markets.

The agreement was signed by Mrs. Edlira Muka, Chief Executive Officer of BALFIN Group, the investment group that owns Tirana Bank, and on behalf of IFC by Wiebke Schloemer, IFC Director for the Western Balkans and South Caucasus. Through this collaboration, Tirana Bank will be able to offer enhanced trade finance facilities to its corporate and small business clients, helping them become more competitive and better integrated into regional and international supply chains.

The new facility will enable Tirana Bank to issue trade finance instruments such as letters of credit, guarantees, and other trade-related products, mitigating risk and facilitating smoother transactions for Albanian businesses engaged in cross-border trade.

Mrs. Elvira Kapoli, Chief Financial Officer, Tirana Bank, stated:

“We are proud to expand our partnership with one of the world’s most respected financial institutions. This agreement with IFC reinforces Tirana Bank’s strategy for sustainable growth and innovation in the Albanian market. It will directly support businesses in expanding their international operations, by providing access to trade finance instruments that enhance liquidity, reduce risk, and strengthen competitiveness. Following Tirana Bank’s recognitions as ‘Best Bank in Albania’ by Euromoney and ‘Bank of the Year’ by The Banker in 2025, this partnership further reflects our commitment to empowering our clients and contributing to the country’s long-term economic development.”

“This partnership marks an important step in strengthening Albania’s trade ecosystem and supporting private sector growth. Through our Global Trade Finance Program we will help Tirana Bank expand access to trade finance for local companies, enabling them to grow, create jobs, and better integrate into regional and global markets.” said Wiebke Schloemer, IFC Director for the Western Balkans and South Caucasus.

This milestone confirms Tirana Bank’s strategic direction of building strong partnerships with leading international financial institutions. Through these alliances, Tirana Bank continues to deliver financial solutions that support Albania’s long-term economic potential.

About IFC

IFC - a member of the World Bank Group - is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions and mobilizing private capital to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

About Tirana Bank

Tirana Bank is one of the most dynamic financial institutions in Albania, part of the BALFIN Group. The Bank offers a full range of banking services to retail, SME, and corporate clients, and is recognized for its strong financial performance and customer-centric innovation. In 2025, Tirana Bank was named “Best Bank in Albania” by Euromoney and “Bank of the Year” by The Banker (part of Financial Times), confirming its position as a trusted and forward-looking financial partner.