ČSÚ: Czech Republic’s Economy Records Slight Growth in the First Quarter of 2026

The Czech economy grew again in the first quarter of 2026. According to current estimates, growth was driven primarily by domestic demand and rising investment, while foreign trade weighed on developments.

The economy in the Czech Republic recorded moderate growth in the first quarter of 2026. According to preliminary estimates by the Czech Statistical Office (ČSÚ), gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0.2 per cent compared with the previous quarter. Compared with the same period last year, growth reached 2.1 per cent.

According to statisticians, developments were supported mainly by rising domestic demand. In particular, household consumption expenditure and higher investment in fixed assets contributed to growth. By contrast, the negative trade balance in foreign trade acted as a drag on the economy.

Graphic: Real Change in Gross Domestic Product Compared with the Previous Quarter and the Previous Year | ČSÚ

“The annual GDP growth of 2.1 per cent was driven exclusively by domestic demand, particularly household consumption expenditure and gross fixed capital formation,” said Vladimír Kermiet, Director of the National Accounts Department at the ČSÚ.

Numerous service sectors also recorded positive developments in gross value added. By contrast, industry in particular declined compared with the previous quarter. On a year-on-year basis, industry as well as the trade, transport, accommodation and hospitality sectors were among the main drivers of growth.

Employment remained unchanged compared with the previous quarter. Compared with the first quarter of last year, however, the number of people in employment increased by 0.7 per cent.