Ukraine
Ukraine made the transition from centrally planned to market economy relatively slowly, and parliamentary elections in 2004 were believed to have been rigged and consequently disputed. Economic growth has been steady since 2000.
Economic Strengths
Heavy industry, raw materials. Well educated workforce. Agricultural exports. Technological potential, especially in aerospace and computers. Will jointly host the Euro 2012 football championship with Poland. Joined the WTO in April 2008.
Economic Weaknesses
Limited economic reform. Corruption. Reliance on energy and natural gas imports. Rising inflation expected during 2008. Recently denied NATO membership action plan. Current account deficit expected to widen during 2008/2009.
| Population | 45,994,287 |
| Capital city | Kiev |
| Currency | Hryvna |
| World GNP Ranking | 33 |
| Unemployment | 2.5% |
| Inflation | 11.3% |
Source: Central Intelligence Agency; The World Factbook, March 2009