MACROECONOMIC FUNDAMENTALS, INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN WEST AFRICA COUNTRIES

Abstract

The study examined the impact of macroeconomic fundamentals, international trade and economic growth in West African countries. The study utilized secondary data obtained from the World Development Indicators. Static panel regression was adopted to analyze the data obtained for the study. The study revealed that inflation negatively impacts economic growth in West Africa. The study also revealed that trade openness significantly affects economic growth in West Africa. Finally, the study revealed that exports significantly affect economic growth in West Africa. The study concluded that macroeconomic fundamentals and international trade affect economic growth in West Africa. The study therefore recommended that the Government should encourage diversification of export products and target new international markets. Supporting value addition and improving product quality will help reduce dependence on a narrow range of exports and enhance resilience against external shocks.