Eastern Europe

Although Moldova is ‘moderately free’ for economic freedom, Russia’s influence operations may spur instability. Economic growth to rebound over the near term, outperforming regional average. The population is shrinking and ageing rapidly, which…

In Mozambique, ongoing conflict and corruption exacerbate economic challenges. The economy is hindered by high unemployment and reliance on agriculture. The young and growing population remains impoverished, facing healthcare and educational hurdles,…

Although economic freedom has worsened and political instability persists, state finances have improved and taxation is low. North Macedonia’s economy has struggled under the weight of elevated inflation, but this is falling and foreign investment…

A new government’s transition to power is creating political instability and state finances have worsened, but economic freedom continues to be robust. The economy is forecast to recover and inflation is under control, but openness in the external…

Low taxes and stability have helped economic freedom, but state spending and corruption remain concerns. Economic performance is likely to outpace peers and inflation is falling, but stricter screening has negatively impacted foreign investment.…

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…

Although Slovakia enjoys good economic freedom, instability blights politics and the budget deficit is high. Economic performance is forecast to rise amidst rapidly-falling inflation, but its very open economy poses risks for the external sector. As…

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…