Economy remains subdued
Liechtenstein industrial and service companies assess the business situation in the 4th quarter of 2025 as satisfactory. The profitability of the companies surveyed remains unchanged, but the number of employees is declining.
Insufficient demand (33%) and staff shortages (15%) remain the main obstacles for Liechtenstein's Economic Affairs Division. There is a clear disparity between the sectors: While almost every second company in the service sector (43%) is struggling with demand concerns and every fifth (21%) with staff shortages, the burden in industry is significantly lower at 23% and 9% respectively. On a positive note, 42% of companies are not currently reporting any business obstacles.
Liechtenstein's industrial and service companies are forecasting a largely stable business situation for the first quarter of 2026. While profitability is likely to remain at the current level, there are signs of a further decline in the number of employees. However, there are contrasting trends within the sectors: the construction industry and general service providers are optimistic about the future and both expect an upturn. In contrast, the non-metal industry is anticipating a deterioration, while the metal industry, the retail trade and the banking and insurance sector expect the current stable situation to continue.