Germany
Germany was one of 12 EU states to adopt the Euro in 2002. The German economy recovered in 2006 after a long period of stagnating growth. The German economy is the 3rd largest in the world and the largest in Europe, and is heavily oriented towards exports which account for around 30% of national output.
Economic Strengths
Heavy engineering, electronics and chemicals. Low inflation and policy of labour market reforms.
Economic Weaknesses
High welfare costs, rising unemployment, small service sector, burden of modernisation of East German economic sector.
| Population | 82,153,548 |
| Capital city | Berlin |
| Currency | Euro |
| World GNP Ranking | 5 |
| Unemployment | 9.1% |
| Inflation | 1.4% |
Source: Central Intelligence Agency; The World Factbook, March 2009