Monthly Briefing on the World Economic Situation and Prospects

Modest improvement in the growth outlook for emerging economies but risks remain Diplomatic rift poses economic challenges for Qatar Fragile and uneven economic recovery in Africa and South America

Global growth projected to strengthen to 2.7 per cent in 2017 and 2.9 per cent in 2018 High food price inflation in several countries raises concerns over worsening food insecurity Brazil returns to positive growth in the first quarter

Slowdown in productivity growth posing a medium term challenge for developing countries Weaker-than-expected first quarter growth in the United States of America Plunge in cocoa prices delaying economic recovery in West Africa

The United States Federal Reserve raises its key policy rate by 25 basis points, amid continued strengthening of labour market conditions Rapid rise in inflation poses policy challenges for several developing economies in Africa, South Asia and Western Asia East Asian economies are experiencing a rebound in exports, but the trade outlook faces significant downside risks

Rising headline inflation primarily reflects higher energy prices, amid a modest recovery in global demand Stronger-than-expected fourth quarter growth in Canada, China and India Argentina and Brazil are set to emerge from recession

According to the World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2017, the world economy remains trapped in a prolonged period of slow growth Weak investment is a major cause of the slowdown in global growth East Asia and South Asia remain the world?s most dynamic regions

Rates of return in the United States rise relative to the rest of the world European Union sanctions against the Russian Federation extended Recent improvement in East Asia?s exports could see setback amid significant uncertainties

Dollar strengthens in the aftermath of the United States presidential election OPEC agrees to first production cut since the global financial crisis India announces demonetization policy

Surge in global bond issuance may pose a risk to the global economy Saudi Arabia raises $17.5 billion in record sovereign bond sale by an emerging economy Egypt devalues pound to alleviate persistent foreign currency shortages