Date Time IMF Executive Board Concludes Annual Discussions on CEMAC Common Policies The economic shock associated with the COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp deterioration of fiscal and external balances in 2020 and is set to have long lasting effects on the regional economic outlook, with fiscal and external adjustments slower than previously anticipated. Reforms to support a more diversified and inclusive growth, including by improving governance and the business climate, are critical to external sustainability and should gain momentum. Washington, DC: On January 12, 2021, the IMF Executive Board concluded the annual discussions with the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) on Common Policies of Member Countries and Common Policies in Support of Member Countries Reform Programs [1] .