Implications of Quasi-Fiscal Activities in Ghana

Author/Editor:

Mali Chivakul ; Robert C York

Publication Date:

January 1, 2006

Electronic Access:

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Disclaimer: This Working Paper should not be reported as representing the views of the IMF.The views expressed in this Working Paper are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the IMF or IMF policy. Working Papers describe research in progress by the author(s) and are published to elicit comments and to further debate

Summary:

This paper assesses the scope and coverage of quasi-fiscal activities (QFAs) in Ghana. We find that while QFAs have been reduced recently, they remain significant. The extensive nature of these activities has several macroeconomic and structural policy implications. An extended measure of public sector operations, including QFAs, presents a clearer picture of Ghana's fiscal stance and fiscal adjustment from one for the central government alone; QFAs have led to serious distortions in energy and water consumption; and they have distorted the investment decisions of both public enterprises and the private sector.

Series:

Working Paper No. 2006/024

Subject:

Banking Contingent liabilities Public enterprises Public sector Quasi-fiscal operations

Frequency:

Quarterly

English

Publication Date:

January 1, 2006

ISBN/ISSN:

9781451862843/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA2006024

Pages:

47

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