KEY ISSUES Context. Guatemala's economy has performed solidly since the 2008-09 crisis. Output has converged to potential, inflation is under control, and macroeconomic policies remain prudent. However, risks to the outlook are tilted downwards, while buffers are modest and space for...

This paper discusses Jamaica’s Seventh Review Under the Extended Fund Facility and Request for Modification of Performance Criteria. Risks to the program are slowly waning but remain high. Notwithstanding the authorities’ demonstrated resolve in implementing the program, more tangible signs...

This 2015 Article IV Consultation highlights that Bolivia has achieved strong economic performance and poverty reduction over the past decade. Real GDP growth has averaged about 5 percent since 2006, and the poverty ratio has declined by 16 percentage points. Real GDP growth is projected to stay...

This paper discusses Jamaica's Tenth Review Under the Arrangement Under the Extended Fund Facility and Request for Modification of Performance Criteria (PCs). Macroeconomic stability continues to strengthen. Inflation and the current account deficit have fallen to historical lows, a product of...

This 2014 Article IV Consultation highlights that a gradual economic recovery appears to be under way in Jamaica. Growth is estimated at 0.9 percent in FY2013/14, as mining, agriculture, and tourism picked up. Recorded unemployment remains high, but fell from 16 percent to 13.5 percent (in...

KEY ISSUES Program. A three-year arrangement under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) in an amount of SDR 40.95 million (50 percent of the quota) was approved on July 21, 2010. The arrangement was extended for one year on August 2, 2013, with no augmentation of access. The program expires on...

KEY ISSUES Background. Panama’s economic performance remains buoyant. Real GDP growth slowed to 8.4 percent in 2013, after the strong expansion in 2011–12, and is projected at above 7 percent in 2014. Inflation is declining, though it is resilient and still higher than in major trading...

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Macroeconomic developments are broadly in line with program projections. There are signs of a gradual recovery from the effects of the global financial crisis and hurricane Sandy. Real GDP growth for 2013/14 is projected at just under 1 percent, supported by improved activity...

Extended arrangement. On May 1, 2013, the IMF Executive Board approved a request by the Jamaican authorities for a four-year Extended Arrangement in an amount of SDR 615.38 million (225 percent of quota) with a first purchase equal to 50 percent of quota. Economic developments. Growth has...

In recent years, the IMF has released a growing number of reports and other documents covering economic and financial developments and trends in member countries. Each report, prepared by a staff team after discussions with government officials, is published at the option of the member country