Economic Activity Driven by Strong Industry

Against the background of robust economic activity in Europe, Austria's economy grew at a seasonally and working day adjusted rate of 0.9 percent in real terms quarter-on-quarter in the first quarter of 2007. The previous year's level was exceeded by 3.5 percent. Driver of the expansion, apart from the once again strong manufacturing industry, was the construction sector, which benefited from the mild winter. Business sentiment among companies continues to be positive; order levels are hitting record highs. According to WIFO's monthly business surveys the buoyant industrial activity is set to stabilise in the months to come, however.