After reviewing the economic reform strategy of Mauritius for the past 10 years in the face of several external shocks, we apply a balance sheet analysis (BSA) focusing on currency, maturity, and intersectoral mismatches. In reviewing developments over this decade, we find that the currency and...

The effectiveness of fiscal policy in smoothing the impact of shocks depends critically on the size of fiscal multipliers. This is particularly relevant for the GCC countries given the need for fiscal policy to cushion the economy from large terms of trade shocks in the absence of an independent...

This 2013 Article IV Consultation highlights that the GDP growth of The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) picked up in FY2012 (fiscal year, ending September 30) to 3.2 percent, lifted by a surge in fishery output and higher copra and coconut oil production. In FY2013, however, growth is...

This IMF Staff Report for the 2013 Article IV Consultation presents economic development and policies of Tthe Gambia. The IMF report shows that Tthe Gambia’s economy is picking up slowly from the past drought conditions. The Gambian Programme for Accelerated Growth and Employment (PAGE)...

Regional growth weakened in 2013 due to a fall in oil production in most countries. GDP growth is expected to pick-up in 2014 due to the recovery of oil production and the continuation of the implementation of public investment plans in most of CEMAC countries. Despite large spending of oil...

This paper discusses Mozambique’s Second Review Under the Policy Support Instrument (PSI) and Request for Modification of Assessment Criteria. Mozambique’s economy remains buoyant and recovered quickly from the severe floods in early 2013. Growth is estimated at 7 percent for 2013,...

Resilient growth is observed in 2012 in Seychelles. Weakness in tourism has been offset by increases from less-traditional markets. The current account and adjustments has administered prices in the second half of 2011, and a cycle of depreciation and inflation ensued. The fiscal accounts...

KEY ISSUES Context: The union’s current account deficit–the key economic vulnerability flagged in the previous (2011) consultation–has declined over the past few years, including thanks to fiscal adjustment in Curaçao. But it remains large. Curaçao’s growth and job creation remain...

This paper presents details of Austria’s 2013 Article IV Consultation. Austria has been growing economically but is facing challenges in the financial sector. Full implementation of medium-term fiscal adjustment plans require specifying several measures and plans that need gradual...

Bangladesh has made substantial progress in strengthening macroeconomic conditions and structural policies. Strong vigilance, guided by adherence to programmed deficit targets, is needed, however. The strengthening of debt management practices now under way will reinforce debt sustainability....