Economic Downturn in Emerging Market Economies Weighing on Austrian Exports

The Austrian economy grew by 0.3 percent in the second quarter of 2015, compared with the previous quarter, slightly more briskly than in the previous three months (first quarter +0.2 percent). Economic activity in emerging market economies is slackening further: China's economy continues to lose momentum, and Brazil and Russia are mired in crisis. The USA is experiencing ongoing robust growth with no major fluctuations. In Europe, the situation continues to improve, albeit only gradually. Developments of domestic demand in the EU going forward will determine the pace of growth of the Austrian economy.