The American Chamber of Commerce in Albania, in partnership with the law firm Nonaj Law in New York, organized the Business Forum “Expanding Business in the United States: Opportunities and Strategies.” The event drew on the expertise of Mr. Altin Nonaj, Founder of Nonaj Law and Associate Professor at Fordham University School of Law, to provide practical insights for Albanian companies considering expansion into the U.S. market.
Designed as a platform for knowledge-sharing and practical guidance, the forum addressed key aspects of entering and operating in the United States. Mr. Nonaj led the discussion, presenting essential elements of U.S. legislation through concrete, real-world examples.
In his opening remarks, AmCham Albania Executive Director Mr. Neritan Mullaj emphasized that strengthening trade and business relations with the United States remains a core priority of the Chamber. He highlighted the importance of equipping members with actionable knowledge on taxation, business structures, sectoral opportunities, and market-specific requirements.
Focusing on critical considerations for market entry, Mr. Nonaj outlined the regulatory framework for establishing a business in the United States, including the selection of jurisdictions with favorable fiscal policies. He also discussed strategic options available to investors, such as registering a new entity versus acquiring an existing business.
He further underscored that the U.S. legal system, grounded in the doctrine of common law, differs significantly from European legal systems and presents distinct complexities. In this context, engaging experienced legal counsel is essential to ensuring a smooth and successful market entry. Contributing to the discussion, Mr. Dritan Mishto, attorney at Nonaj Law, highlighted the importance of relying on a trusted advisor to navigate legal and business relationships effectively in the U.S.
The forum also provided a comprehensive overview of U.S. workplace culture and employment law. Mr. Nonaj addressed key elements such as employment contracts, employer and employee rights and obligations, and compliance with regulations related to equality and non-discrimination, including gender, race, age, and other protected categories. Through practical examples, he illustrated areas where employers must exercise particular care when structuring employment agreements.
A particularly engaging segment focused on visa processes and the legal implications associated with them, both for business establishment and employment in the United States. This topic generated significant interest among participants, as it represents a critical step for individuals and companies seeking to operate in the U.S. market.
The session concluded with an interactive discussion, during which participants explored Mr. Nonaj’s professional perspective on sectors where Albanian businesses can successfully position themselves. In addition to legal insights, he offered a practical, experience-based outlook drawn from cases he has handled. He also noted that, according to available data, over 250,000 Albanians are registered as employed in New York, a figure believed to be even higher in reality, highlighting sectors where the Albanian community has demonstrated strong performance, including construction, hospitality, and food trade.
