Government deficit: 16 EU member states do not exceed 3% of GDP
The EU Stability and Growth Pact stipulates that Eurozone members must adhere to certain rules and ensure budgetary discipline. The annual government deficit is not to exceed 3% of the gross domestic product. The public debt must not exceed 60% of GDP.
GDP is the most important economic indicator and is indicative of a country's economic situation. It measures the economic performance of a country over a given period. This page offers access to the most recent quarterly data for EU countries.
The consumer price index, which is harmonised within the EU (including the inflation rate) plays an important role in the assessment of overall economic development.