
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) raised its outlook for Greek economic growth in its latest report, the “Regional Economic Prospects, May 2024,” with short-term prospects remaining positive, as it estimates growth expected to accelerate to 2.3% in 2024 and 2.6% in 2025, up from 2% in 2023.
The report notes that following a strong post-Covid recovery in 2021 and 2022, GDP grew by just 2 percent in 2023, though still significantly outperforming the euro area average.
Both private and public consumption grew by close to 2 percent, gross fixed capital formation was up by 4 percent, and exports of goods and services rose by 3.7 percent, exceeding import growth (2.1 percent).
Tourist arrivals and receipts increased substantially in 2023, exceeding pre-Covid-19 levels. Confidence indicators also started moving in the right direction, while easing energy prices helped disinflation in 2023.
Headline annual inflation was 3.5 percent in the last quarter of 2023, having reached double-digit rates in 2022. In addition, Greece returned to investment grade credit rating during 2023 for three out of the four main Rating agencies.
The budget recorded a primary surplus of 1.9 percent of GDP in 2023 and the fiscal outlook is assessed to be in line with the provisions of the existing Stability and Growth Pact, reactivated as of 2024.
Economic confidence is steadily improving, with the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) on an upward trend in the first quarter of 2024 (56.9 in March 2024, the highest level since February 2022), and the Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI) reaching a 7-month high (108.4 in March 2024).
Both indicators remain at relatively high levels compared to the euro area. Good progress has been made in implementing projects funded by the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), mitigating the downside risks coming from global and regional turbulence, as well as climate-related disasters.
The overall short-term outlook therefore remains positive, with growth expected to pick up to 2.3 percent in 2024 and 2.6 percent in 2025. Key downside risks remain, associated with possible delays in deploying Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) funds and weaknesses in key export markets and tourism source countries.
Source: tovima.com


Latest News

German Ambassador to Greece Talks Ukraine, Rise of Far Right & Tariffs at Delphi Economic Forum X
Commenting on the political developments in his country, the German Ambassador stressed that it was clear the rapid formation of a new government was imperative, as the expectations across Europe showed.

Athens to Return Confiscated License Plates Ahead of Easter Holiday
Cases involving court orders will also be excluded from this measure.

Servicers: How More Properties Could Enter the Greek Market
Buying or renting a home is out of reach for many in Greece. Servicers propose faster processes and incentives to boost property supply and ease the housing crisis.

Greek Easter 2025: Price Hikes on Lamb, Eggs & Sweets
According to the Greek Consumers’ Institute, hosting an Easter dinner for eight now costs approximately €361.95 — an increase of €11 compared to 2024.

FM Gerapetritis Calls for Unified EU Response to Global Crises at EU Council
"Europe is navigating through unprecedented crises — wars, humanitarian disasters, climate emergencies," he stated.

Holy Week Store Hours in Greece
Retail stores across Greece are now operating on extended holiday hours for Holy Week, following their Sunday opening on April 13. The move aims to accommodate consumers ahead of Easter, but merchants remain cautious amid sluggish market activity.

Green Getaway Ideas for Easter 2025 in Greece
Celebrate Easter 2025 in Greece the sustainable way with eco-farms, car-free islands, and family-friendly getaways rooted in nature and tradition.

Civil Protection Minister Details Summer Firefighting Plans at Delphi Forum
At the 10th Delphi Economic Forum, Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Yiannis Kefalogiannis discussed Greece's plans for the upcoming fire season.

How Shops and Markets Will Operate During Easter Holy Week
The Easter holiday schedule has been in effect since April 10, with retail stores open Palm Sunday, and most supermarkets also operating to meet consumer demand for Easter shopping

Why Is the French Aircraft Carrier Charles De Gaulle in Piraeus?
Docking in Piraeus after a four-month deployment in the Indo-Pacific region, the admiral of the aircraft carrier the Charles de Gaulle says, "Greece is our best partner in the Mediterranean."