Why political tensions and protectionism pose threats to global growth in 2025?


**The Global Economic Landscape: A Breath of Change Under Uncertain Skies**

In a world that is constantly on the move, the global economic outlook seems to be gradually brightening. According to the latest projections from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), global growth is expected to reach 3.3% this year, a modest improvement on previous years. But behind these figures lies a complex picture of political tensions, economic divergence and growing uncertainty that deserves careful attention.

**Mixed Forecasts**

The IMF report, while showing a general trend towards stabilisation, also reveals a nuanced reality. While emerging economies, particularly those in sub-Saharan Africa, have solid growth forecasts, dropping to 4.2% this year, the downward revision for the euro area to 1% raises crucial questions. Why such a disparity between regions? A thorough analysis of economic policies, infrastructure investments and international trade orientations could provide essential answers.

Indeed, the United States, with a revised growth forecast of 2.7% for 2025, appears to be in a better position at present. This reflects a desire for economic recovery, but also significant internal challenges, including growing social tensions and inconsistencies in fiscal policy. Added to this is an increasingly complex global interconnectedness, exemplified by trade. The IMF warns of an intensification of protectionist policies that could see a resurgence with the arrival of new administrations.

**An era of uncertain economic policy**

As we approach a tumultuous election year in several major countries, including in the United States where President-elect Donald Trump has indicated his intention to impose a 10% tariff on global imports, uncertainty weighs on markets. The chain reaction that such a measure could cause could be devastating, exacerbating trade tensions and leading to deflation of foreign investment.

Historically, policies like these have rarely delivered on their promise of lasting improvements in domestic economic conditions. Instead, they are often a sign of deeper economic anxiety, a desperate cry for protection that diverts resources from global development. In an increasingly interconnected world, these decisions can have ripple effects that reach far beyond national borders, creating economic ripples that ripple across the globe..

**The Implications of Inflation and Supply Chains**

Another aspect to consider is inflation, which the IMF projects will continue to decelerate, falling to 4.2% in 2025 and then to 3.5% in 2026. While slowing inflation may provide relief to central banks in their quest to normalize monetary policies, the path to normality could still be bumpy. The real impacts of the pandemic, labor market imbalances, and disrupted supply chains persist, making economic forecasts even more volatile.

Lessons from past crises show that governments and businesses must anticipate and adapt to new market realities. Continued innovation, investment in research and development, and a stronger commitment to sustainable business practices are essential. Countries that can combine these elements will be the ones that emerge as leaders in the new global economy.

**A New Balance for a Shared Future**

As we observe these developments, it is crucial to remember that economics can sometimes be a fragile compass, guided not only by numbers but also by human decisions. The next period must be marked by enhanced international cooperation, designed to ease tensions and encourage fair trade practices.

To go beyond analyzing IMF forecasts, policymakers must envision a world where sustainability, collaboration, and equity become the cornerstones of their strategies. A reassessment of economic systems is no longer a luxury, but a necessity if we are to build a future where every nation can prosper in a mutually beneficial framework.

Thus, understanding economic forecasts is essential, but the important thing is to use them as an opportunity to move toward a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable financial world. Current dynamics are at a crossroads, and the choices we make today will shape the international landscape of tomorrow.

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