This note analyzes the medium- and long-term prospects of the hydrocarbon sector as a source of growth. Substantial hydrocarbon and financial reserves implies a sizable upward shift in the sustainable expenditure path. Rather than suggesting a specific fiscal rule, four simple alternatives are...

This paper derives estimates of optimal levels of reserves for Bolivia, focusing on current account shocks as the key balance of payments risk. Bolivia’s foreign reserves are adequate, with an optimal level between 29 percent of GDP and 37 percent of GDP. The accumulation of foreign...

Based on the economic developments and policies of Rwanda, the staff’s report was prepared. The rising global food and fuel prices have begun to elevate inflationary shares. The authorities are streamlining expenditures and introducing further reforms in revenue administration and public...

New Zealand’s economy continued to grow at a moderate rate, in part reflecting the effects of the recent drought and inflation. The macroeconomic policy has been framed to absorb adverse shocks with flexible exchange rates to serve as buffer. The planned pace of deficit reduction is...

Macroeconomic performance has been satisfactory, and program implementation under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility arrangement has also been good. The medium-term projections have been updated in anticipation of relief under the Multilateral Debt Relief Initiative (MDRI). Despite recent...

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.

This paper discusses key findings of the Second Review of the Three-Year Arrangement Under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility for Cameroon. Economic activity is slowing, reflecting a weak business environment, stronger competition from low-cost producers of manufactured products, and...