Economy

Un fort taux de croissance du secteur non agricole au premier semestre, auquel s’ajoutent des récoltes records, se sont traduits par une amélioration des perspectives de croissance du Maroc en 2011. L’inflation reste faible malgré une hausse supérieure aux prévisions. Le gouvernement travaille à un certain nombre de mesures pour enrayer le problème du déficit budgétaire, dont la forte hausse est source d’inquiétude.

The Philippines is making progress in boosting its ability to compete in the global economy, according to a recently released report. Although the country still has some way to go before being able to match many of its neighbours, its rationalisation of trade tariffs, an improving macroeconomic environment and a growing technological readiness have all strengthened its capacity to conduct business on the international stage.

Oman’s economy has become more competitive in the past 12 months, according to a recent report, and is steadily making the transition from having an efficiency-driven economic base to an innovation-powered one, a process that will gain further momentum thanks to increased government budget outlays.

Steady growth in Ghana’s economy has seen the country maintain its position on the World Economic Forum’s “Global Competitiveness Index 2011-12”, with the country keeping its 114th position among 142 countries. The economy is also posited to continue growing, with 20% expansion expected this year on the back of increased oil, gold and cocoa prices.

Qatar looks set to retain its position as the world’s fastest-growing economy this year, with the country’s core sectors performing strongly and diversification continuing apace. While many economies worldwide are still sluggish, or face the prospect of slipping back into recession, Qatar is expected to see 21% real growth in 2011, according to a recent report by Doha-based financial institution QNB Capital.

Saudi Arabia’s economy looks set for a period of sustained growth, with oil revenues remaining high, non-hydrocarbons exports on the rise and the effects of a massive investment programme by the state starting to kick in.