Economic forecasts are optimistic yet cautious

According to Leszek Zienkowski of the Institute of Socio-Statistical Research, the gross domestic product (GDP) will increase by 5% to 5.5 % in 1997-after 7% in 1995 and 6% in 1996. In the opinion of Markus Rodlauer of the International Monetary Fund, a 5.6% GDP increase, a decrease in inflation to 13% and a trade balance are very ambitious plans, yet possible to fulfill. In Rodlauer's opinion the lowest level of inflation with a decreasing trend is necessary in Poland in 1997. (Rzeczpospolita, Jan. 2, page 1)