Seychelles’s fiscal stance for 2012 allows maintaining a steady course toward debt reduction. The authorities’ decisions to downsize the loss-making national airline and raise tariffs of public enterprises are crucial steps for easing fiscal pressures and ensuring sufficient...

This 2006 Article IV Consultation highlights that Malawi is at a critical juncture following its progress on macroeconomic stability, attainment of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) completion point in August 2006, and the recent launch of the Malawi Growth and Development Strategy,...

This paper discusses key findings of the Fifth Review for Afghanistan under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF). Performance under the PRGF-supported program has been mixed. Monetary and financial policies were broadly consistent with the program. However, difficulties were evident...

This paper discusses key findings of the Fourth Review Under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF) for Afghanistan and a Request for Waiver of Performance Criterion. Program performance during the second half of 2007/08 fell short of expectations. The performance criterion on fiscal...

With the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) completion, Congo’s prospects for achieving sustained growth and poverty reduction have improved. The HIPC completion reduced debt service obligations and increased the resilience of external debt indicators to shocks. Non-oil revenue is...

Albania’s macroeconomic performance over the past year has been good, with strong growth and a significant reduction in poverty under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility Arrangement. Executive Directors commended the new strategy for maintaining the macroeconomic stability,...

The post-conflict economic stabilization in Liberia is now complete. Inflation pressure is easing owing to lower fuel and food prices, and there is a rebound in exports. Sound macroeconomic policies, strengthened institutions, and debt relief have stabilized the economy and have supported...

This 2006 Article IV Consultation highlights that following two years of contraction, output growth in Vanuatu recovered beginning in 2003, spurred by stronger performance in construction and a pickup in tourist arrivals. Growth reached 7 percent in 2005 and an estimated 5½ percent in 2006,...

Iraq showed good progress in undertaking strong macroeconomic policies and implementing economic reforms under the Stand-By Arrangement (SBA). Executive Directors welcomed this, and noted that low investment and stagnating output in the oil sector continue to hamper economic growth. They...

A confluence of developments is creating a more favorable economic situation for Guinea-Bissau. The country has moved away from debt distress with the debt relief granted after the Highly Indebted Poor Countries completion point last year. Fiscal sustainability has improved considerably through...