This 2008 Article IV Consultation highlights that Sierra Leone’s macroeconomic performance in 2008 was mixed. Output growth reached 6.4 percent in 2007, led by solid agricultural and mining production and buoyant activity in the construction and services sectors. The external current...

The staff report for the 2008 Article IV Consultation of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia discusses economic developments and policies. The new government’s economic program aims to raise growth further, but does not address these vulnerabilities. Plans to increase the central...

This paper discusses key findings of the Review Under the Flexible Credit Line (FCL) for Colombia. The FCL arrangement has provided Colombia an additional coverage against adverse external shocks, in the context of strong monetary and fiscal policies. Colombia’s strong institutional and...

This paper discusses key findings of the Fifth Review for Afghanistan under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF). Performance under the PRGF-supported program has been mixed. Monetary and financial policies were broadly consistent with the program. However, difficulties were evident...

Colombia’s economy has performed well in recent years. This 2008 Article IV Consultation highlights that economic growth in 2006–07 exceeded the regional average by a substantial margin. The authorities have acted swiftly to bolster confidence and ensure that the private sector...

Zambia’s nonperforming loans are expected to increase and banks have become more cautious in their lending. The staff report for the Zambia’s first and second reviews of the Three-Year Arrangement under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility and request for Waivers of...

This 2004 Article IV Consultation highlights that monetary policy of Kenya has been expansionary since 2003/04 to promote economic growth. This has, however, contributed to the recent rise in inflation. Executive Directors have observed the progress that has been made under the Poverty Reduction...

The staff report for the Philippines’ 2008 Article IV Consultation is focused on economic developments and policies. A deepening of the global economic downturn presents downside risks to this outlook. Inflation is expected to reach 9½ percent in 2008 and decline to 6 percent in 2009,...

This paper discusses key findings of the Fourth Review Under the Stand-By Arrangement for Georgia. The strategy remains appropriate, and program targets for 2010 are in line with those presented at the Third Review. Fiscal policy will transition from an expansionary stance in 2009 to a path of...