Economic Indicators Paint a Mixed Picture for 2024
According to the latest figures from the National Institute of Statistics, the country's economic situation in 2024 presents a contrasting picture. As of the third quarter of 2024, the unemployment rate stands at 16%, highlighting the persistent challenges in the labor market. Meanwhile, the country's population reached 11,887,412 inhabitants in January 2024, indicating a slight demographic shift.
On the international trade front, the trade balance shows a deficit of $2,163.1 million in December 2024, which could reflect tensions in commercial exchanges or an increase in imports. Regarding inflation, the rate stands at 6.2% in December 2024, a level that could exert pressure on household purchasing power.
Economic growth, measured in the third quarter of 2024, is 1.8%. Although positive, this modest growth suggests that the country's economy continues to face structural and cyclical challenges. These economic indicators call for an in-depth analysis and targeted policy measures to stimulate job creation, strengthen competitiveness, and control inflation.