Jamaica’s economy grew by 2.4% in 2018.This was led by increased tourism and construction activity. Inflation decreased as food prices fell, while unemployment was lower than in the previous year. An accommodative monetary stance contributed to credit growth, which coincided with improvements in doing business conditions and an increase in consumer confidence. Fiscal performance was strong; and debt as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP)declined. The external trade deficit worsened; but the level of foreign exchange reserves was still comfortably above the required threshold. The medium-term outlook remains positive, underpinned by a combination of higher investment and productivity growth supported by ongoing reforms. However, key downside risks, including macroeconomic and weather-related shocks, policy reversal of the structural reforms, and high crime rates can derail growth prospects.