Economics

Another IMF Deal Isn't a Sure Thing for Serbia, Premier Says

  • Stringent IMF programs can hinder growth, Brnabic says
  • No decision yet on Eurobond as there’s liquidity in the budget

Ana Brnabic on June 30.

Photographer: Oliver Bunic/Bloomberg
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Serbia is focused on wrapping up its IMF program this year and will evaluate the implications for economic growth before seeking another, the country’s new prime minister said.

Ana Brnabic, a U.S. and U.K.-educated political newcomer, said she’ll continue pursuing a plan to overhaul the country’s public administration started by President Aleksandar Vucic, who she replaced after he became president. When asked if the country of 7.1 million may forgo renewing the three-year precautionary deal, during which International Monetary Fund officials have recommended measuresBloomberg Terminal including cutting spending, selling or shutting down unprofitable state companies, and reducing the public workforce, she said “it’s possible.”