According to the data, this development reflects a narrowing of the trade balance deficit, as the decline in imports exceeded that of exports in absolute terms. At current prices, exports of goods excluding fuel increased by 3.4%, while corresponding imports rose by 2.7% (6.1% and 2.1%, respectively, at constant prices).
Developments in the tourism sector were also positive, with arrivals of non-resident travellers increasing by 4.1% and corresponding revenues rising by 12.0%. As a result, the surplus in the Services Balance widened to €16.3 billion. Tourism revenues for the January–August period reached €16.7 billion, up from €14.9 billion in the same period last year.
The deficit in the combined current and capital account – which reflects the economy's external financing needs – narrowed compared to the same period in 2024, reaching €6.0 billion.
In the Financial Account, under the category of direct investment, residents’ claims on the rest of the world recorded net inflows of €2.3 billion. Meanwhile, residents’ liabilities to the rest of the world – corresponding to foreign direct investments in Greece – recorded net inflows of €8.1 billion. Notably, in August, direct foreign investment included the share exchange of Metlen Energy & Metals PLC for the acquisition of common registered shares in Metlen Energy & Metals S.A.
In portfolio investment, the increase in residents’ claims on the rest of the world was driven by a €4.4 billion rise in resident holdings of foreign corporate shares, partially offset by a €2.7 billion decrease in holdings of foreign bonds and treasury bills. The rise in liabilities primarily reflects an €8.4 billion increase in non-resident holdings of Greek bonds and treasury bills.
