COVID-19 shocks point to recession in Latin America
Thursday, April 2, 2020
Subject
The economic impact of COVID-19.
Significance
COVID-19 arrived in Latin America relatively late, but the response from governments has been mixed, and cases are now rising exponentially. The region faces multiple economic shocks: to domestic economic activity, export demand, tourism, commodity prices and financial conditions. Following years of weak economic performance, there is limited space for fiscal and monetary stimulus.
Impacts
- New waves of unrest could follow a recession, particularly if governments are seen to have mishandled the crisis.
- Leaders who have downplayed the threat from coronavirus and been slow to act could face a backlash as the crisis deepens.
- Venezuela is particularly vulnerable to a pandemic.