Steady expansion
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Underpinned by relaxed monetary and fiscal policies, the economy picked up in 2004, with GDP growth set to be close to 2%. The expansion should continue through 2005 and 2006 at much the same pace, slightly above potential, thanks to the more dynamic external environment.
These developments, which should contribute to an improvement in the labour market as of 2005, are likely to be accompanied by continuing moderate inflation. Because of the rise in oil prices, inflation reached 1.3% (year-on-year) in October 2004, but the underlying rate was still only 0.5%.Continuing gradual monetary tightening is projected, with financial conditions becoming more neutral as spare production capacity is reduced. The consolidation of federal finances as of 2005 remains necessary, even if budget outturns in 2004 prove better than expected. The improved cyclical situation must not lead to a weakening of the efforts made to stimulate domestic competition and increase potential growth.
Population (000s), 2003 | 7 343 |
Area (000 sq km) | 41 |
Currency | Franc |
GDP (Billion USD), 2003 | 321.8 |
Life expectancy at birth (Women, Men), 2002 | 83.0, 77.8 |
Total labour force (000s), 2003 | 4 349 |
Government type | Federal Republic |
Indicators | % change unless otherwise indicated |
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2004 | 2005 | 2006 |
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GDP growth | 1.9 | 1.9 | 2.0 |
Consumer price index | 0.8 | 1.2 | 0.9 |
Short-term interest rate (%) | 0.5 | 1.6 | 2.4 |
Unemployment rate (%) | 4.0 | 3.6 | 2.8 |
Current account balance (% GDP) | 12.8 | 12.4 | 12.6 |
Source: OECD©
OECD Observer No 245, November 2004
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