Economy & Business - July 2004

The IMF is optimistic about the economy, even though it is also forecasting that the growth rate will slow down sharply this year to 3.8%. In 2003 the growth rate was 5.6%. Next year the IMF is forecasting just 3.5% growth. The number three in the Fund, Agustí­n Carstens, paid a visit to the capital, San José, on 12 July to underline the Fund's support, and concerns, for the country.