Barbados - 2004 Article IV Consultation--Staff Report; Public Information Notice on the Executive Board Discussion; And Statement by the Executive Director for Barbados (Electronic book text)

1. Barbados has strong public and private institutions and benefits from high political and social stability. The country has some of the highest social and competitiveness indicators in the region and enjoys investment-grade rating on its sovereign bonds. Its low crime level, welleducated work force, reliable infrastructure, and attractive natural setting have helped make it a leading destination for high-end tourism and a prime location for offshore financial services.