Moldovan statistics shows surprising 4.8-per cent economic growth in first quarter of 2015

Chisinau, 15 June /MOLDPRES/ - Moldova registered an economic advancement of 4.8 per cent in the first quarter of 2015 against the same period of the year before, above the expectations of analysts and officials, who expected a drop from 0.2 to 1.5 per cent. The National Statistics Bureau (BNS) today informed about the results for the first four months of 2015, which show an increase of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) up to 24.4 billion lei.   

The Economics Ministry forecasts a one-per cent decrease of the economy in 2015, after a 4.6-per cent increase in 2014. The IMF also expects a one-per cent contraction, and the World Bank- two per cent. Experts of the Expert-Grup Independent Analytical Centre forecast a drop of 0.2 per cent in GDP in case of optimistic developments, while pessimistic prospects show a reduction of 1.8 per cent. Experts of the Viitorul institute expect a four-per cent decrease in the Gross Domestic Product.    

The National Institute of Economic Researches is most optimistic, as it estimates an economic growth of 0.6 per cent in 2015, in case of "a proper management of domestic risks." At the same time, economists say that, if the risks are not properly managed, "the national economy might enter a recession this year; according to the pessimistic scenario, they estimate a two-per cent contraction of the GDP in real terms against 2014."

(Reporter V. Bercu, editor L. Alcaza)