Country Information

• GDP: US$20.9 billion (2007).
• Main exports: Machinery and equipment, metals, electricity, textiles and food products.
• Main imports: Machinery and equipment, chemical products, textiles and food.
• Main trade partners: Finland, Sweden, Germany, Russia, Latvia and Lithuania.

The Estonian economy is widely seen as an excellent example of a transitional economy, providing its citizens with one of the best standards of living in the former Eastern bloc. Growth rates have been averaging over an extraordinary 10% per year. Estonia also has a thriving information technology sector, and trade with the West is strong. Unemployment is down to under 5%, and that figure is much lower in and around Tallinn.

Other than oil-shale, which is present in significant quantities and provides the basis of the country's power generation, Estonia has few raw materials of its own and relies mostly on imported commodities to produce finished goods. However, Estonia's infrastructure, particularly the road network, is well-developed by regional standards.

Prior appointments are necessary. It may take time to arrange a meeting, and it is best to reconfirm before setting off. Business is conducted formally. Business cards are exchanged after introduction. Successful meetings are often followed by drinks in a pub or lavish dinners at an Estonian restaurant.

Office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1800.

Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Toom Kooli 17, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia
Tel: (6) 040 060.
Website: www.koda.ee