The International Monetary Fund predicts Sudan’s economy could rebound if fighting between the General Abdel Fattah al Burhan’s army and Rapid Support Forces ends by year’s close.
IMF forecasts indicate Sudan may grow 3.2 percent this year, reversing an expected 0.4 percent contraction, with growth rising to 9.5 percent in 2026.
The Fund maintained its projection of a severe 23.4 percent contraction for 2024, reflecting the heavy toll of ongoing conflict.
Forecasts assume the war, which erupted April 15, 2023, concludes by year-end, allowing reconstruction and economic recovery to begin promptly.
Annual inflation is expected to fall to 54.6 percent this year and further decline to 16.1 percent by 2026, the IMF said.
Inflation reached a staggering 87.2 percent in 2024, highlighting the economic strain on households and businesses across Sudan.
Sudan has not updated official economic data since 2019, with statistical systems largely outdated, some remaining unchanged since the 1980s.
The IMF’s forecasts rely on expert estimates in the absence of comprehensive, current economic information from Sudanian authorities.
The April 2023 conflict has devastated Sudan’s industrial base, crippled commercial and agricultural activities, and sharply reduced government revenues.
The Fund shared its analysis during the annual IMF and World Bank meetings in Washington, D.C., continuing through October 18.
Experts warned that timely peace and reconstruction will be critical to translating forecasts into tangible economic recovery for Sudan.
Without a resolution, the country risks prolonged economic hardship, further inflationary pressures, and stalled growth in a region already facing instability.
