Debt ratio

The debt ratio is expressed as a percentage annual basis as debt outstanding at the end of each quarter divided by the sum of GPD over the previous four quarters.

According to the Growth and Stability Pact, the public deficit in countries which have adopted the euro as their currency should not exceed the 3 percent limit and public debt should not exceed the 60 percent limit. If this situation occurs, the government must make an effort to reduce the deficit and/or debt.