Social consensus and competitiveness strategies : the case of Dominica

Abstract

This chapter looks at the problem of achieving competitiveness and sustained economic growth in a micro economy, which is in a transition from protection to trade liberalisation, and operating within the constraints of an IMF stabilisation programme. It is argued that inadequate regard was given to consultation and consensus-building among major stakeholders in the implementation of this programme. The most important considerations that emerge from the discussion in this chapter are that although competitiveness is an economic imperative for Dominica, calling for sound macroeconomic policies, due regard should be assigned by the government and the IMF to the social aspects of economic development, and due recognition should be given to the inherent constraints faced by small states.