The Central and Eastern European (CEE) insurance market recorded a robust start to 2025, with gross written premiums (GWP) reaching EUR 38.8 billion in Q1 – 11.7% increase y-o-y. Claims payments also rose, though at a slightly slower pace, climbing 10.3% to EUR 14.4 billion, according to aggregated market data.

Hungary posted one of the strongest surges, with GWP up 22.3%, while claims only increased by 9.3% y-o-y. A second impressive growth pace was recorded by Bulgaria, where GWP went up by 21.6% accompanied by a nearly identical rise in claims (+21.7%).

A few other markets recorded double-digit growth rates, while no market in region saw a negative dynamic. Some markets faced elevated claims pressures, notably Bulgaria and Bosnia. Croatia, by contrast, saw claims fall sharply by 12.7%, easing pressure on insurers.

Poland remains the largest single market, accounting for 36.3% of regional GWP, followed by Czechia (17%). Hungary, Romania and Slovenia complete Top 5, each of them with market shares in the range of 5.5% - 10%.

The CEE insurance sector continues its strong expansion, supported by rising demand across both mature and emerging markets. The combination of double-digit premium growth in several countries and a relatively controlled increase in claims suggests that profitability prospects remain favorable, despite persistent challenges from inflation and NatCat exposures.

Access the regional statistical page to get the latest statistical data for the CEE and SEE, for the main business lines.