Industry

Morocco’s economy is poised to continue along its trajectory of economic growth, but GDP expansion rates will depend on the policy choices made by the government. Although estimates by the IMF project that annual growth rates will reach 4.5% in 2024, there is still the matter of ensuring that GDP growth translates into improving conditions across all segments of the population.

Trinidad and Tobago is the largest producer of oil and gas in the Caribbean. While there is a need to diversify the economy away from its dependence on hydrocarbons, a number of new discoveries in late 2019 appear set to support a short-term recovery in the energy sector and lend financing to the wider economy.

The government of President Nana Akufo-Addo assumed power on a promise to take “Ghana Beyond Aid”, and is pushing ahead with initiatives to formalise the economy, diversify its manufacturing base and overhaul its taxation structure. Ghana’s ability to retain fiscal discipline will be tested, with election-related expenditure expected to increase in the run-up to the 2020 poll.

The year 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Sultanate of Oman, making it the longest continually independent Arab country in modern history. The year also marks the passing of Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said, who died on 10 January. He is succeeded by his cousin and the former minister of culture, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said.