Samoa:2023 Article IV Consultation-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Samoa

After a three-year recession triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy is recovering, boosted by the reopening of tourism. However, higher global commodity prices briefly raised inflation to double-digit rates. Disciplined fiscal policies, buoyant revenue and remittances, and donor support have contributed to fiscal and external stability. The banking system has remained resilient to the economic downturn, although there has been some deterioration in asset quality. Pressures on correspondent banking relationships continue. With the pandemic-driven decline in investment, as well as rising numbers of seasonal workers abroad, output is projected to remain well below pre-pandemic trends.