The Greek economic sentiment index rose to 108.1 points in January from 101.6 in December and 101.0 points in the same month last year, the Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research (IOBE) said in a report.
IOBE, in its monthly report, said the new increase was the result of a general improvement of the climate, as growth rates remain higher than the European average, inflation is falling, while unemployment continues to decline, contributing positively to real household income.
However, the adoption of economic policy measures by the new US president may cause significant disruptions in international trade, which may also affect the domestic economy.
Industrial production up 5.9% in December
In addition, industrial production increased by 5.9% in December compared to a year earlier. The trends in the individual sectors of industry in December were mixed. In particular, an increase was recorded in manufacturing (3.7%) and electricity (16.4%), but a decline in mining and quarrying (-4.3%). In sectors of high importance for the Greek economy, an increase was recorded in basic metals (14.8%), pharmaceuticals (13%) and food (6.4%).
In the third quarter of 2024, employment in industry increased by 0.3% to 429.1 thousand people compared to the corresponding quarter of 2023. The labor cost index in manufacturing stood at 112.7 in the third quarter of 2024, recording an increase of 5.2% compared to a year ago.
