Eastern Europe

An unbiased judiciary weakens the rule of law and corruption is more prevalent, but the business environment continues to thrive. Although the economy is expected to slow markedly in the short term owing to high inflation, medium-term prospects are…

Corruption continues to hamper economic freedom and fiscal health could be improved, but Romania has entered a period of political stability. Economic development is set to slow, as high inflation erodes purchasing power and has led to greater…

Increasing authoritarianism and corruption are resulting in mass protests, although fiscal discipline is leading to better state finances. Economic momentum is slowing, owing to high inflation and reduced external demand, but foreign investment…

Despite the business landscape enjoying relative economic freedom, political instability has been a common feature of Slovakia. Although joblessness is relatively low, wages are increasing, also adding to very high inflation, whilst the war in…

Although Slovenia has been beset by political instability and corruption remains an issue, its economic freedom is one of the best in Eastern Europe. However, the economy is slowing, as inflation is elevated, whilst its highly open nature exposes its…

Although corruption is a problem, the Czech Republic has strong adherence to economic freedom and solid government finances. Economic growth is set to slow amidst persistent inflation, but the foreign investment landscape is vibrant. Whilst…

Sales of pet care in Bulgaria continued to grow based on the potential of prepared food due to its current low share. Dog and cat food remained the main growth driver of the pet care market as dogs and cats continued to be the main pet population in…

Pet care in Hungary recorded strong double-digit retail current value growth in 2022 and 2023, with a high single-digit increase projected over 2024. Such growth is rooted in high inflation, as retail volume sales are expected to continue to drop at…

It is expected to be a positive picture for pet care in Poland in 2024, with both healthy double-digit current and constant value growth. An improving economic picture is also expected to support this growth, as inflation eases significantly and real…

Pet Care in Romania is expected to see a return to positive volume growth in 2024, following the decline of the previous year. This will be due in a large part to waning inflationary pressures, which will have a positive impact on real household…