Republic of Madagascar: 2022 Article IV Consultation, Third Review Under The Extended Credit Facility Arrangement, and Requests for A Waiver of Nonobservance of Performance Criteria and Modification of Performance Criteria-Press Release; Staff Report;

This paper focuses on Republic of Madagascar’s 2022 Article IV Consultation, Third Review under the Extended Credit Facility Arrangement, and Requests for a Waiver of Nonobservance of Performance Criteria and Modification of Performance Criteria. Two years of pandemic and multiple climate shocks have aggravated Madagascar’s fragility. The outlook is highly uncertain with risks tilted to the downside. Madagascar continues to face risks associated with social fragility, weak state capacity, and climate shocks. While Madagascar’s economy rebounded faster than expected in 2021, growth is projected at 4.2 percent in 2022–2023. The authorities should further their efforts to enhance budget credibility and fiscal transparency. Recently adopted public financial management reforms are expected to contribute to better budget execution in 2023. Measures to enhance the legal framework for public procurement contracts would be welcome. Overall program performance is mixed. Despite some macroeconomic slippages, the implementation of structural reforms is gaining momentum. Improving governance and accelerating reforms to increase transparency and accountability are key to deliver higher and more inclusive growth.