This is a macroeconomic comparison amongst Germany, the Czech Republic and Hungary. The German studies demonstrate a rapid transition to the market economy in East Gemany, with inflows of capital from West Germany; Hungary proves a case of lower adjustment; and the Czech Republic is somewhere in between. Topics covered include the labour market and the educational system in the Czech Republic; the food processing industry, the furnuiture industry and the textile and clothing industries in Czechoslovakia. The Hungarian educational system, the engineering industy, textile and clothing industry and furniture and shoe industries are also examined. Some comparisons are also drawn with Northern Ireland.