BERLIN (MNI) – The German Industry Association (BDI) is more
optimistic than the government regarding the growth outlook for the
German economy this year.

BDI president Hans-Peter Keitel said Thursday that it is possible
the German GDP growth rate for 2012 “will have a 1 before the decimal.”
Exports are seen expanding by about 3%.

Keitel argued that the current economic slowdown in the country is
no reason for “exaggerated worries.”

On Wednesday, the government lowered its GDP growth forecast for
this year to 0.7% from the 1.0% projected in October.

–Berlin bureau: +49-30-22 62 05 80; email: twidder@marketnews.com

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