The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has forecast average growth of 2% for Latin America over the next five years. This figure was highlighted during the XVIII Regional Conference on Central America, Panama and the Dominican Republic, organized jointly with the Central Bank of Costa Rica. The figure is significantly lower compared to its European and Asian counterparts, reflecting a weakening of medium-term growth prospects in the region.
Experts at the conference also highlighted the resilience of the global economy in the face of successive shocks. For, the latest update of the IMF’s World Economic Outlook suggests that global growth remains stable at 3.2%, with inflation expected to continue to decline, albeit at a slower pace.
Also, Central America, Panama and the Dominican Republic stand out in the regional landscape. This year, they have outperformed other Latin American and emerging market regions with stronger economic growth and lower inflation. Over the medium term, growth in these countries is expected to be approximately double the average for Latin America and the Caribbean, bringing them more in line with other emerging market economies.
The success of these countries is largely attributed to the policies implemented by their policymakers. These policies have succeeded in stabilizing public debt and controlling inflation, as well as strengthening social support systems, contributing significantly to their economic performance.
The conference underscored the importance of continuing with sound and adaptive economic policies to face future challenges and maintain the pace of growth in the region, despite global adversities.