Economy

Peru has emerged as one of the best performing economies in Latin America. The country possesses strong fundamentals, combining robust growth, a falling fiscal deficit, rising export revenue and a credit rating second only to that of Chile. Nevertheless, challenges remain in terms of ensuring sustainable development. Peru has undoubtedly benefitted from its openness to private enterprise and foreign investment, along with its prudent fiscal policy. Despite issues with corruption, Peru possesses an independent central bank and a well-functioning investment authority. Furthermore, it showed regional leadership in implementing anti-corruption legislation. GDP is expected to grow by 3.7% in 2019 and in 2020, underpinned by infrastructure projects, rising exports and increased investment in mining sector. While the economy is steadily improving, more needs to be done to achieve the country’s development objectives. This chapter contains interviews with Carlos Oliva, Minister of Economy and Finance; and Julio Velarde Flores, President, Banco Central de Reserva del Perú.