Economics Olympiad Reaches Record 59,000 Students Across 12 Countries

The Economics Olympiad 2026 has reached a major milestone, with participation growing to more than 59,000 students from nearly 2,000 schools across 12 countries.

With the school rounds now complete, this year’s competition marks a 50% increase in participation compared to 2025, and a sixfold increase since the program began just four years ago.

Beyond the numbers, the growth reflects something even more important: tens of thousands of young people engaging with economics and critical thinking skills — many for the very first time.

National finalists will now progress to the international final round, which will take place in Greece in August 2026, bringing together some of the region’s brightest young minds to compete, collaborate, and deepen their understanding of economics.

EFI is proud to co-fund and support the Economics Olympiad across the network, helping expand access to high-quality economic education and opportunities for students across the region.

A huge congratulations goes to every partner, educator, coordinator, and volunteer who helped make this year’s achievement possible.