The EU Stability and Growth Pact stipulates that Eurozone members must adhere to certain rules and ensure budgetary discipline. The annual government deficit – also known as net borrowing - is not to exceed 3% of the gross domestic product (GDP). The public debt must not exceed 60 % of GDP.
Government deficit/surplus
In 2024, many of the 27 member states managed to stay below this limit. Germany recorded a government deficit of 2.8% of GDP.
Government debt
The level of government debt increased in many countries. In 2024, 12 of the 27 countries had a government debt which exceeds the agreed 60% of GDP limit. Greece’s government debt amounted to 153.6% in 2024, representing the highest ratio among all euro countries. Italy (135.3%) and France (113.0%) were also at the top end of the scale. Germany’s government debt amounted to 62.5% of GDP, which is above the 60% GDP limit as well.
EU Stability and Growth Pact
Destatis is responsible for reporting Germany’s budget data to Eurostat as part of the EU Stability and Growth Pact. More background information and data on this topic can be found in the corresponding section of the main Destatis website.
Source
Eurostat database: net lending (+)/ net borrowing (-) and government debt
Last update: 29.04.2025