IMF and Afreximbank assess economic outlook for Caribbean nations

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) have released economic assessments for several Caribbean nations, highlighting a transition toward more sustainable growth following post-pandemic recoveries.

In Antigua and Barbuda, the IMF projects economic growth of 2.4% in 2026, a deceleration from 3% the previous year. Growth is expected to reach 2.5% in both 2027 and 2028. While the country’s performance exceeds the collective 1.4% forecast for tourism-dependent Caribbean economies, the IMF warned of high public debt and renewed inflationary pressures, projecting year-end inflation of 4.5% for 2026.

In Barbados, Central Bank Governor Dr. Kevin Greenidge noted that the economy is well-positioned to withstand global risks despite growth slowing to approximately 2%. Afreximbank projects 1.9% growth for Barbados in 2026, aligning with the Central Bank’s outlook. Dr. Greenidge highlighted that while tourism has been softer than expected due to higher airfares and shorter visitor stays, the country maintains strong primary surpluses and declining public debt, which was estimated at 93.7% of GDP at the end of June.