Current account set to drop as exports improve but domestic demand slows

Poland's current account deficit is expected to decrease from $9.9 billion in 2000 to $8.76 billion this year, according to research by Reuters. Analysts forecast the current account gap at $519 million in August versus July's unusually small deficit of $296 million. Polish exports, counted by banking flows, are predicted to rise by 9.3% this year, against last year's 7.2% increase. Imports are expected to grow by 3.5% in 2001 in comparison with last year's 1.7% rise. (Reuters)