High rates of growth have so far made it possible to postpone the adjustment, but these conditions cannot last indefinitely. In 2005 various conditions arose that could help initiate a process of adjustment. Domestic demand accelerated in Japan, and to a lesser extent in Europe as well.
The fourth quarter outcome was the highest contribution to quarterly growth since the final quarter of 2007, and although net exports were still a drag on annual growth in 2013 at –0,5 percentage points, this was significantly lower than the –1,7 percentage points recorded in 2012.