In 2023, Venezuela’s economy saw significant growth, exceeding 5%, and it’s projected to reach about 8% in 2024, as stated by President Nicolas Maduro.
This growth, amidst a prolonged crisis marked by high inflation and mass migration, indicates a noteworthy recovery.
Despite these challenges, Venezuela’s inflation rate, though still high at just under 190% in 2023, no longer tops the charts in Latin America since Argentina’s inflation exceeded 200%.
President Maduro has plans to continue boosting national production and increasing worker incomes in 2024.
His administration’s efforts seem to be yielding results, considering the economic hardships, including triple-digit inflation rates and widespread migration.
The state oil company PDVSA contributed significantly to this economic turnaround, injecting $6.23 billion into the economy last year.
This funding was critical for essential healthcare, education, and housing services. Maduro also announced a public workers’ monthly bonus raise from $70 to $100.
Despite this, the minimum wage remains at a modest 130 bolívares, roughly $3.6 per month.
Various organizations and financial agencies, including ECLAC and the IMF, predict Venezuela to be the fastest-growing economy in Latin America in 2023.
This forecast is notable, considering the country’s ongoing sanctions.
High oil demand linked to sanctions against Russian oil and easing US sanctions have played crucial roles in this growth.
GlobalData supports this positive outlook, projecting real GDP growth of 5.6% in 2023 and 5% in 2024.
The boost in oil production, fueled by high demand, is a key factor in this economic upswing.
The resumption of oil exports and international cooperation agreements are expected to enhance foreign trade and revive domestic industries.