This paper presents key findings of the Second and Third Reviews for Gabon under the Stand-By Arrangement. Performance under the program has been mixed. Non-oil economic growth was robust prior to the onset of the international financial crisis, spurred by high oil and commodity prices. However,...

Lesotho is a small, landlocked, low-income country, with limited natural resources and a narrow production and export base. In recent Article IV consultations, IMF staff has emphasized the importance of ensuring that increases in outlays for poverty reduction are consistent with fiscal...

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.

Albania’s Third Review Under the Three-Year Arrangement under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility is analyzed. Albania has reached a pivotal stage in its economic development. Increasing foreign direct investment and rapid financial sector development point to a faster convergence...

This paper discusses Congo’s progress under the Enhanced Initiative for Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC). In the view of the staff of IDA and the IMF, Congo has met in full all of the triggers for reaching the completion point. All key decisions, actions, and measures required to...

This paper discusses key findings of the Third Review Under the Stand-By Arrangement for Seychelles. The program is on track, and macroeconomic stabilization has advanced rapidly. The authorities continue to implement the program with a high degree of ownership and success. All quantitative...

This staff report for Cambodia’s 2008 Article IV Consultation describes economic developments and policies. Growth is slowing, liquidity is tightening, and, as a result, banks’ balance sheets are coming under strain. Competitiveness has eroded given the recent sharp real...