Growth is gaining momentum, led by strong external demand while domestic demand is also picking up. The central bank’s foreign exchange intervention policy has helped stem deflationary pressures but inflation is still well below target. Following substantial fiscal adjustment over the...

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Recent data show a gradual economic recovery, with growth projected to reach just over 1 percent in 2014/15. Inflation has trended down to about 8 percent. The program is on track. Jamaica’s four-year, SDR 615.38 million (225 percent of quota) Extended Arrangement under...

This paper focuses on Fifth Post-Program Monitoring Discussions with Republic of Belarus. Growth in Belarus has remained slow despite high increases in wages and directed lending. To promote growth, the authorities loosened macroeconomic policies in the first half of the year but then...

This 2014 Article IV Consultation highlights that Hungary’s economy has emerged from the 2012 recession and posted 1.1 percent growth in 2013, mainly driven by government investment and consumption, and also net exports. Private demand—although strengthening on the back of...

Burundi’s Fourth Review Under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) Arrangement is discussed. The measures undertaken to enhance fiscal outlook by the 2015 elections are reviewed. Satisfactory progress has been made on structural reforms. Policy discusses have focused on reinvigorating...

On December 24, 2013, a tropical trough system impacted St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The heavy rains resulted in severe floods and landslides, with damages and losses estimated to be equivalent to about 15 percent of GDP. With most of the impact falling on infrastructure, including bridges,...

This paper reviews Myanmar’s Second Review Under the Staff-Monitored Program IMF staff report. The IMF report highlights that the authorities are pursuing a wide range of economic reform program against a background of political liberalization. Growth has strengthened led by services....

This paper discusses Seychelles’ Eighth Review Under the Extended Arrangement. Economic growth and macroeconomic stability improved in 2013. A robust rise in tourism earnings supported growth, as well as a reduction in the current account deficit as a share of GDP. All performance...

This first and second reviews under the Stand-By-Arrangement analyzes Ex Post Evaluation of exceptional access for Romania. Efforts are needed to strengthen monetary policy transmission. The banking system remains well capitalized, but the authorities need to accelerate the resolution of...

KEY ISSUES Economic background and outlook. Tanzania has enjoyed strong and stable growth, projected to remain at 7 percent next year and in the medium term. Inflation is at 6 percent, gradually converging to the authorities’ 5 percent medium-term objective. The external current account...