Tonga's recovery following the devastation of the 2018 Cyclone Gita has been derailed by a double blow from the pandemic and Cyclone Harold. FY2020 GDP growth is estimated to fall to -2 1\2 percent due to domestic containment measures, a sudden stop in tourism, and investment delays. The full...

The Covid-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on C.A.R.'s economy but appears now somewhat contained. The number of positive cases and related deaths has been very limited over the last few months, even though most containment measures have been progressively loosened. Despite some progress...

Russia entered the crisis with low potential growth but strong macroeconomic policy frameworks and significant buffers. Policy space allowed the authorities to mount a sizeable public health and countercyclical response to the crisis, which has helped limit the economic downturn. Nevertheless,...

This staff report proposes the modification of the performance criteria for end-December 2020 for the economic program supported by the three-year Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement that was approved by the Executive Board on August 28, 2019. The modifications aim to accommodate the...

The Covid-19 pandemic has ended a period of buoyant growth averaging about 6 1\2 percent over the last 6 years. Containment measures, lower external demand, reduced remittances, and the sudden stop of travel and tourism are taking a significant toll on the economy. Without forceful policy...

The COVID-19 pandemic is having a severe impact on Lesotho's economy. Supply chains for major industries have been disrupted and a national shutdown to contain the virus curtailed economic activity with adverse social impacts. The economy is expected to be further hit by declining external...

The COVID-19 pandemic is having a severe impact on Eswatini's economy at a time when the country is already facing deep economic challenges, and the government has begun fiscal consolidation efforts. A national lockdown to contain the spread of the virus, disruptions in supply chains, and lower...

The pandemic is taking a heavy toll on the fragile island nation of Sao Tome and Principe. Tourist arrivals came to an abrupt halt in mid-March, externally financed projects are being delayed, and supply shipments are disrupted. In response to the local outbreak, emergency confinement measures...

The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to hit hard Myanmar's economy via weaker exports, tourism, remittances and domestic demand. The economic and social costs of a widespread outbreak could be large, against the backdrop of a frail healthcare system and inadequate social safety nets, as well as...

This paper discusses Sierra Leone's 2019 Article IV Consultation, Second Review Under the Extended Credit Facility Arrangement, Request for a Waiver of Nonobservance of Performance Criterion. Sierra Leone continued to make good progress under the IMF-supported program. While the program's...