Because of the weak performance in the first half of the year, the Federal Government's Expert Group anticipates only moderate GDP growth of 0.9% in 2017. Over the coming quarters, though, solid momentum in the global economy is set to support the export sector, while the domestic sector is also expected to gather pace.

Sizeable GDP growth of 2.0% is therefore expected for 2018. Accelerating growth will bring a marked increase in employment and a further decline in the unemployment rate. Positive and negative risks to the outlook are more balanced than in previous quarters.