The Athens Stock Exchange is Europe's best-performing stock market this year. The Athens general index has gained over 100%, led by small capitalisation stocks. Companies have raised more than GDR 2,000bn in public offerings. Over 200 companies are in line for a listing.

An extensive infrastructure modernisation programme is underway, supported by EU structural funds. Aimed at improving Greece's transport links with its EU partners, it covers highways, airports, harbours and railways. It will also improve access for exporters in the Balkans and Turkey to markets in northern Europe.

Greece will stage the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. Substantial investments have begun in preparation for hosting a record number of visitors. Greece is upgrading tourist facilities and giving the capital a facelift - including the creation of an archaeological park linking monuments scattered across the city.

Greece's economy is mainly service-oriented. The biggest industries are tourism and international shipping. Cement and construction materials, together with food processing, are the most important manufacturing sectors. Agricultural output is gradually switching from traditional products like tobacco and cotton, towards higher value-added products like bottled wine and olive oil.