Guatemala: More Investment and Social Spending Needed
IMF ANNUAL HEATH CHECK A view of Guatemala City, Guatemala at dusk. More social and infrastructure spending in the country can help spur inclusive growth (photo: iStock/Opla) Economic growth for Guatemala, Central America’s largest economy, is expected to rise to 3.2 percent this year, said the IMF in its ANNUAL HEALTH CHECK of the economy. But incomes have not risen enough over the last decade to substantially reduce high levels of poverty—currently at about 60 percent of the population. IMF Country Focus sat down with Esther Pérez Ruiz, IMF mission chief for Guatemala, to discuss the reports overall findings, as well as key recommendations that can help the country lift growth prospects and living standards for its 17 million citizens. The IMF just completed its annual assessment of Guatemala's economy. How is the economy doing? Before I answer your question, let me express my profound condolences for the recent tragedy that has hit Guatem...
