Business Cycle Upturn not in Sight. Economic Outlook for 2003 and 2004
In 2003, the economy will grow by only 0.7 percent. Under the current framework conditions of deficient overall demand in the euro area and a marked depreciation of the dollar vis-à-vis the euro, prospects of a cyclical rebound remain elusive even for 2004. With GDP growth projected at an annual average 1.2 percent, economic sluggishness may enter its fourth year.