Exports Driving Activity. Economic Outlook for 2004 and 2005

The strengthening of global economic activity has initiated a recovery in Europe this year. Lively exports have led to a marked increase in manufacturing output. In Austria, as in the euro area as a whole, GDP is set to rise by 1.9 percent in volume in 2004. While world trade may lose momentum next year, growth in Europe should receive stronger support from domestic demand. However, the recent jump in oil prices constitutes a risk for the short-term outlook.