Foreign options widen as economy recovers in Jamaica

Subject

Jamaica's political and economic outlook.

Significance

At the end of April the IMF conducted its fifth review under its stand-by arrangement with Jamaica. Again the news was generally positive, with continued growth, falling unemployment and a buoyant stock exchange.

Impacts

• International relations will face challenges from the Venezuelan crisis and Brexit.
• Mild economic recovery will not suffice to combat high levels of crime.
• Forthcoming elections could jeopardise the government’s commitment to reform.