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The Challenges of Fiscal Consolidation and Debt Reduction in the Caribbean

Author

Listed:
  • Charles Amo Yartey
  • Mr. Machiko Narita
  • Mr. Shelton M Nicholls
  • Mr. Joel Chiedu Okwuokei

Abstract

This paper examines debt dynamics in the Caribbean and discusses policy options for reducing the high debt levels. Based on empirical studies of factors underlying global large debt reduction episodes, important policy lessons are drawn for the Caribbean. The analysis shows that major debt reductions are associated with strong growth and decisive and lasting fiscal consolidation efforts. Since growth in the current environment is virtually nonexistent, significant fiscal consolidation is inevitable in the region. Better control of the public wage bill, increasing public sector efficiency and tackling transfers are the obvious targets to reduce spending. On the revenue side, there is ample room to reduce tax expenditures, eliminate distortions while broadening the tax base. Fiscal consolidation needs to be complemented by a comprehensive debt reduction strategy including tax policy reforms and structural reforms to boost competiveness.

Suggested Citation

  • Charles Amo Yartey & Mr. Machiko Narita & Mr. Shelton M Nicholls & Mr. Joel Chiedu Okwuokei, 2012. "The Challenges of Fiscal Consolidation and Debt Reduction in the Caribbean," IMF Working Papers 2012/276, International Monetary Fund.
    • Handle: RePEc:imf:imfwpa:2012/276
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    2. Bardaka, Ioanna & Bournakis, Ioannis & Kaplanoglou, Georgia, 2021. "Total factor productivity (TFP) and fiscal consolidation: How harmful is austerity?," Economic Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 94(C), pages 908-922.
    3. Kalaš Branimir & Andrašić Jelena & Pjanić Miloš, 2016. "Aspect of Fiscal Consolidation: Evidence from Serbia," The European Journal of Applied Economics, Sciendo, vol. 13(2), pages 21-29, October.
    4. Elisé Wendlassida Miningou, 2022. "External debt, fiscal consolidation, and government expenditure on education," Cahiers de recherche 22-02, Departement d'économique de l'École de gestion à l'Université de Sherbrooke.
    5. Marianne, Ojo, 2015. "Long term funding and regulation: facilitating financial stability and development (low income developing countries)," MPRA Paper 63406, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    6. Guerra, Sergio, 2016. "Energy efficiency policies in the Caribbean: a manual to guide the discussion," Sede Subregional de la CEPAL para el Caribe (Estudios e Investigaciones) 40459, Naciones Unidas Comisión Económica para América Latina y el Caribe (CEPAL).
    7. Eugene Msizi BUTHELEZI, 2023. "Impact of Fiscal Consolidation on Government Debt in South Africa: Evidence to Structural and Cyclical Effect," Journal of Economics and Financial Analysis, Tripal Publishing House, vol. 7(2), pages 1-23.
    8. International Monetary Fund, 2013. "Kingdom of the Netherlands-Aruba: Selected Issues and Statistical Appendix," IMF Staff Country Reports 2013/259, International Monetary Fund.
    9. Francisco Galrao Carneiro & Rei Odawara, 2016. "Taming Volatility," World Bank Publications - Reports 24925, The World Bank Group.

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