As of 27 April, the second block of businesses will be able to open following the Coronavirus lockdown.
Prime Minister Edi Rama announced that they will include retail sales of textiles and footwear, furniture shops, lighting equipment, household items, flower shops, pet shops, watch and jewellery shops, audio and video equipment, and carpets amongst others.
Those businesses that will open in the so-called “second phase” must meet stringent security and sanitisation measures and must apply for a permit through e-Albania. If the number of COVID-19 cases increases significantly again, the government will return to the initial stage of lockdown.
Rama said that by opening these businesses, 27,589 employees will return to work.
Taxis will also be able to resume business but only one passenger at a time is permitted. Children and the disables are not allowed to use them and those travelling must sit in the rear diagonal seat. The driver must use gloves and a mask at all times. Furthermore, taxis can only operate in the city and no intercity service is allowed. Those using the taxi service must have a permit to do so.
The taxi driver must disinfect the car and offer hand sanitizer to each customer when they get in, and out of the vehicle. Air conditioning will not be allowed, only natural ventilation.
