Wiiw Forecast: Economic Growth in Central and Eastern Europe Defies Global Uncertainties

PeopleOther ♦ Published: February 4, 2025; 13:03 ♦ (Vindobona)

Despite weakening industry, private consumption remains a strong growth driver and makes a significant contribution to the region's economic stability. At the same time, the unpredictable economic policy decisions of the USA under President Trump pose considerable risks for the export-oriented countries in Central and Eastern Europe.

Poland leads EU eastern member states in growth, followed by Croatia and other Western Balkans countries, and Turkey, with growth expected in 2025 and 2026 at 3.5% and 4.5% respectively. / Picture: © Wikimedia Commons; Emptywords, CC BY-SA 4.0 DEED (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en)

The economies of Central, Eastern, and South Eastern Europe are facing a challenging year characterized by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties. Nevertheless, current forecasts show that the region will record solid growth despite these risks. Strong private consumption in particular is supporting the economy, while the export-oriented industry continues to struggle with…