São Paulo – Tunisia may take out a new loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) next year to support the development of its economy and implementation of reforms. IMF techs and local authorities convened in the capital, Tunis, from the 9th until last Friday (18). At the end of the meeting, IMF mission chief Amine Mati issued a statement on the economic scenario in the North African country.
According to Mati, Tunisian authorities are committed to economic stability and taking the necessary measures to allow inclusive growth among the population, amid a “difficult” global and regional environment. Regarding advances made, the mission chief lists structural reforms approved by Congress, a tax system reform and recapitalization of state-run banks.
Despite these achievements, Mati said Tunisia’s economic outlook remains “challenging.” To the IMF, economic activity weakened, unemployment is high and the country remains vulnerable to external events. Besides, banking and tax reforms are still due. Mati said in the statement that the country has an economic plan to roll out over the next five years that will allow it to address its primary needs, especially creating jobs quickly.
The Fund also said a USD 1.61 billion loan agreement signed in 2013 expires on December 31 this year. According to IMF, Tunisian authorities have shown interest in entering into another agreement soon. “Discussions about a new Fund arrangement are expected to be held over the coming weeks,” the statement reads.
*Translated by Gabriel Pomerancblum
