Austria's Economic Outlook: Stabilization Amid Challenges

Austria's central bank predicts a GDP contraction of 0.1% in 2025, citing a high budget deficit as a key challenge. The economy is expected to stabilize and recover by the second half of 2025, with growth resuming at 1.2% in 2026 and 2027. High energy prices also pose threats.

Austrian gross domestic product is set to contract by 0.1% in 2025, according to the nation's central bank. High budget deficits and household energy prices are posing significant challenges to economic growth, the bank's report reveals.

Central bank governor Robert Holzmann expressed in a statement that the economy is expected to stabilize in 2025, with recovery anticipated in the latter half of the year. Projections for 2026 and 2027 indicate growth rates rebounding to 1.2%.

With an anticipated budget deficit of 3.8% of GDP, Austria is set to exceed the EU borrowing guideline of 3%. The new coalition government promises to address these fiscal challenges, focusing on revitalizing the economy after consecutive years of decline. Additional factors of concern include high household energy prices and fiscal policies under U.S. President Donald Trump, although potential support may come from an expected spending increase in neighboring Germany.

(With inputs from agencies.)