IMF forecasts Qatar’s economy to grow post-World Cup

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has provided an optimistic outlook for Qatar’s economy following the FIFA World Cup, with projections indicating a return to steady growth. The IMF reports an expected annual growth rate of around 1.75% through to 2025, with notable contributions from nonhydrocarbon sectors expanding at about 2.75%. This growth is attributed to increased domestic demand and is aligned with the country’s long-term objectives outlined in the National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy.

The IMF highlighted that medium-term growth could surge to approximately 5% per year, bolstered by heightened liquefied (LNG) production and the implementation of reforms under the National Development Strategy 3 (NDS3). These reforms are geared towards achieving the goals set forth in the National Vision 2030. The Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has played a pivotal role in maintaining price and financial stability by tightening monetary policy in line with the US Federal Reserve, which has helped moderate inflation.

In recent economic developments, Qatar’s Planning and Statistics Authority reported that October year-on-year inflation rose over two percent, influenced by sectors such as communication and food. Despite this uptick, the QCB has successfully managed to keep price and financial stability intact amidst rising non-performing loans. Macroeconomic measures have been enhanced, focusing on bank risk mitigation against short-term external asset-liability mismatches within a prolonged high-interest rate environment.

The IMF’s findings also suggest that Qatar’s fiscal strength for fiscal years 2022-2023 has been fortified by sizable hydrocarbon windfalls. Looking ahead, fiscal prudence is projected for the upcoming 2024 budget cycle, with inflation expected to stabilize at two percent due partly to these windfalls.

The economic normalization post-World Cup is further supported by activities related to the North Field project and a tourism boost associated with hosting the tournament. These factors are anticipated to significantly contribute to Qatar’s economic expansion over the next few years.

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