Key facts
- Economic risks remain tilted to the downside.
- Escalating conflicts and trade tensions could disrupt trade routes and commodity prices.
- Concerns raised about energy and food security.
International Monetary Fund member countries have called for greater financial support for nations grappling with short-term financing difficulties. These challenges are exacerbated by the negative consequences of ongoing wars and elevated energy prices. In a statement released after a meeting in Bangkok, the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC) indicated that economic risks continue to lean towards the downside. Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan, serving as the IMFC chair, stated that escalating conflicts and trade tensions could further disrupt vital trade routes, intensify commodity price pressures, particularly for refined energy products, and worsen energy and food security.