This 2008 Article IV Consultation on euro area policies highlights that 10 years after its launch, monetary union is a distinct success and the euro area a zone of stability in the international economy. However, economic union remains work in progress. Improved wage setting and labor market...

This 2008 Article IV Consultation highlights that the Ethiopian economy has been growing rapidly in the last four years. Favorable weather conditions and pro-growth policies have helped sustain recovery from a sharp drought-related contraction in 2002/03. Growth has averaged 11 percent since...

This paper examines Mali’s 2001 Article IV Consultation, Third Review Under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF), Third Annual Program, and Request for Modification of Performance Criteria. Program implementation to date has been satisfactory, with all quantitative performance...

This Selected Issues paper of Norway presents a cyclical indicator of fiscal policy at the general government level, and provides an updated assessment of the long-term fiscal position based on the future profile of the State Petroleum Fund (SPF). The study focuses on structural changes needed...

The general government in Spain is composed of the State (central) government, the social security system, 17 regional governments, and a very large number of municipalities. Over the last several years, motivated in part by a desire to qualify for participation in Stage 3 of monetary union, the...

In this study, economic developments of India are discussed. Growth is among the fastest-growing in the world, social indicators are improving, and medium-term economic prospects are favorable. The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) efforts are used to tighten monetary conditions. The measures...

Togo showed solid progress under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF)-supported economic program. Executive Directors appreciated its strong track record of policy, reform implementation, and commitment to sound reforms. In addition to maintaining macroeconomic stability, Togo has fully met all...

The government of Burundi undertook to prepare the first Growth and Poverty Reduction Strategy Framework (GPRSF). The general framework for most economic and social development programs initiated by Burundi and its donors has been established. A general balance sheet of performance has also been...

The comprehensive program supported by the IMF, the European Union, and the World Bank has helped Romania in stabilizing its economy, reversing imbalances, rebuilding confidence of international financial markets, and setting a sustainable economic growth. Executive Directors appreciated the...

Strong economic fundamentals, robust policy framework, and a sustained track record of excellent policy implementation have facilitated the maintenance of orderly economic conditions in Mexico even amidst the substantial external volatility during the global crisis. Executive Directors welcomed...