Finland
Finland accepted a close relationship with the USSR as the price of maintaining its independence. It joined the EU in 1995 and the Euro in 2002.
Economic Strengths
Industry exports and quality orientated. Large high tech sector, especially Nokia mobile phones and internet services. World leader in pulp and paper. Exports quick to recover from recession. Relatively low inflation. Improved foreign investment incentives. Gateway to Russian and Baltic economies. Membership of eurozone. Competitive economy.
Economic Weaknesses
Slowdown in economy from 2001; telecommunications industry hit particularly badly by global slump. Rapidly ageing population and low retirement age. High level of public and foreign debt. High unemployment. Small domestic market. Peripheral position in Europe.
| Population | 5,239,749 |
| Capital city | Helsinki |
| Currency | Euro |
| World GNP Ranking | 53 |
| Unemployment | 6.9% |
| Inflation | 2.53% |
Source: Central Intelligence Agency; The World Factbook, March 2009