The Swazi economy has continued to register sluggish economic activity even as rising Southern African Customs Union revenue contributed to a large fiscal surplus and accumulation of international reserves. The unchecked growth of insufficiently regulated saving and credit cooperatives poses...

Poland’s economy has recovered well in 2010–11, reflecting strong economic fundamentals and decisive countercyclical policies. Poland’s strong trade and financial links to Europe continue to make it vulnerable to potential shocks from the region. Despite the difficult...

The Executive Board of the IMF has completed the fifth review of Angola’s economic performance under a program supported by the Stand-By Arrangement. The Board’s decision enables the immediate disbursement of an amount equal to SDR 85.9 million, bringing total disbursements under...

This paper discusses key findings of the Report on the Observance of Standards and Codes on Data Module for Pakistan. Based on the review of Pakistan’s statistical practices, recommendations are made that are aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s adherence to the internationally...

Lebanon’s credit growth in 2008–10 has been concentrated in trade and services, household loans, and the construction sector. These sectors accounted for almost 80 percent of all new loans extended since 2008. Real estate lending in particular has been increased substantially. On...

The staff report for the First Review Under the Three-Year Arrangement for the Republic of Madagascar reviews economic and financial policies. The 2007 economic program is designed to sustain growth, promote fiscal consolidation, and reduce poverty while keeping inflation to single digits and...

This 2011 Article IV Consultation highlights that Macedonia is poised to achieve low but positive growth under the baseline scenario of a shallow recession in the euro area. Under a downside scenario, growth would be weaker, and external financing pressures could arise. In the near term, the...

Kosovo’s economic performance has strengthened considerably, but structural deficiencies undermine export sector development and prospects for sustainable growth. The program seeks to restore fiscal sustainability and safeguard financial sector stability. Restoring fiscal sustainability...

Kenya’s economy is bouncing back following multiple shocks between 2008 and 2009. The program targets a gradual reduction in the central government primary balance through tax reform and strict control of current spending to bring the debt-to-GDP ratio below 45 percent at the end of the...

This 2013 Article IV Consultation highlights that Papua New Guinea has achieved strong economic growth over the past decade, benefiting from high commodity prices, mineral investment inflows, sound macroeconomic policies, and financial sector stability. The current account deficit is expected to...