The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) hosted a pivotal two-day summit with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on January 21-22, marking the annual policy consultations for the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) member states. The high-level meetings, held at the ECCB Headquarters, were spearheaded by IMF Mission Chief Christoph Duenwald.
The engagement commenced with comprehensive talks between the IMF delegation and ECCB Governor Timothy N. J. Antoine alongside his senior policy team on January 21. Subsequent discussions extended to broader ECCB staff members on January 22, facilitating a multi-tiered exchange of insights.
Central to this year’s dialogue was a forward-looking analysis of the ECCU’s economic trajectory. Delegates examined critical macroeconomic indicators, fiscal performance metrics, debt sustainability frameworks, and financial sector stability projections for 2025 and beyond. The conversations specifically addressed medium-term economic expectations and policy coordination mechanisms across the currency union.
As an outcome of these consultations, the IMF team will compile an exhaustive staff report detailing the ECCU’s economic standing and prospects. This comprehensive assessment is scheduled for presentation to the IMF’s Executive Board during the latter part of this year, potentially influencing future policy directives and financial support mechanisms for the region.