Belarus’s economy grew rapidly but remained vulnerable to external shocks. Under the IMF-supported program, Belarus avoided loss of output during the global recession, contained inflation, and increased gross reserves. The structural reform agenda focused on economic liberalization, a...

Dominica has made significant progress over the past decade in strengthening its macroeconomic policy management. The 2011 Article IV Consultation report concludes that Dominica is emerging from the crisis. Growth turned positive in 2010, but tepid demand and the needed fiscal consolidation will...

The Bahamian economy began a tepid recovery in 2010, following a sharp recession in 2008 and 2009 in the wake of the global financial crisis. Real GDP grew by about 1 percent. The rebound was driven by the trade, hospitality, transport, and government services sectors. Executive Directors...

Mexico’s policy stance has focused on balancing domestic and external conditions, supporting the recovery while rebuilding policy buffers through fiscal consolidation and reserve buildup. Growth has remained resilient during the first half of 2011 and is expected to continue into 2012,...

The economic slowdown as a result of the global crisis has been severe, and the recovery has not yet taken hold. Despite ample buffers, including large fiscal space and strong international reserves, the policy response to the crisis has been constrained. Inflation has resurfaced as a concern...

The economic development of Hungary after the economic crisis is discussed. Hungary’s economic program supported by Stand-By Arrangement has been successful in strengthening the economy and stabilizing market conditions. Given Hungary’s high public debt and large financing needs,...

Since its independence in 2006, Montenegro has experienced an economic and financial roller coaster ride. The baseline is predicated on continued improvements in cost competitiveness and productivity-raising foreign direct investment (FDI). Avoiding a relapse into recession will thus require...

Poland’s macroeconomic performance was strong during the global crisis, supported by sound economic policies. The previous Flexible Credit Line (FCL) arrangements served the Polish economy well and provided adequate insurance against negative spillover risks. Executive Directors...

This paper discusses Togo’s progress under the Enhanced Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative. In November 2008, the Boards of Executive Directors of the IDA and the IMF agreed that Togo had met the requirements for reaching the decision point under the Enhanced HIPC...

The staff report highlights that the economy of Kiribati showed resilience from the global crisis owing to infrastructure projects financed by foreign assistance. Executive Directors stressed the importance of preserving real per capita value of the Revenue Equalization Reserve Fund to ensure...