Blockchain Adoption in Albania’s Digital Transformation: Perspectives from Students and Businesses

Abstract Albania has taken massive steps in its roadmap to transforming its payment systems, from traditional banknote-based ones to digital ones. The context for this transformation is set by the regulation of electronic money institutions starting from November 2021, further accelerated by Albanian fintech startups and the country’s integration into the Single European Payment Area (SEPA), effective from 21 November 2024. One important development in this transition is the growing use of Distributed Ledger Technology-based assets, especially cryptocurrencies, by a large Albanian consumer base. Statista projections indicate that 126,200 Albanians were expected to interact with at least one cryptocurrency during 2025, while ongoing legislative efforts aim to align the national framework with the broader MiCA European regulation. Through two structured surveys—one involving 100 students from IT and finance-related programs at “Fan S. Noli” University, and the other involving 50 Albanian businesses, we evaluated awareness, adoption interest, and perceived benefits of these technologies. Students represent an important future workforce for the implementation of blockchain-based solutions, while businesses act as the main stakeholders providing the infrastructure for their adoption. For this reason, both perspectives are essential to understand the broader transformation. The results show that over one-third of students have already interacted with blockchain tools, with most highlighting security and transaction speed as key advantages. Meanwhile, Albanian business owners showed strong interest in applying core blockchain features—such as data traceability, security, and automation within their workflows. Over 80% expressed willingness to integrate AI and blockchain solutions, particularly for streamlining tax, utility, and payroll processes.