Official sources estimated Syria’s economic product value at $17 billion in 2000. The same officials forecasted the national economy to record five percent growth in 2001, although economists estimate economic growth rate at no more two to three percent. The rate of inflation in Syria is estimated at two percent for 2001.
The country’s recently approved budget boosted public expenditure by 10 percent to $1.7 billion. Most of the increased investment will go into basic infrastructure. Revenues will include proceeds from the issue of local and foreign loans, which will be used to cover the budget deficit. — (menareport.com)
© 2001 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
