The Barbados Central Bank reports that the strong economic recovery that started last year has continued into the first quarter of 2022 driven by a tourism rebound and it predicts double-digit growth this year overall.

However, Central Bank Governor, Cleviston Haynes, delivering the economic review for the first quarter of the year warned of risks posed by the fallout from the war in Ukraine including rising prices.

Mr. Haynes disclosed that jobs have also been returning following the massive surge in unemployment at the height of the pandemic.

The Central Bank Governor notes that while the relaxation of covid-19 restrictions overseas has boosted travel and tourism the fallout from the Ukraine war has dampened global growth prospects.

However, Barbados remains on target for solid economic growth this year despite some risks.

Mr. Haynes is also worried about the impact of spiralling prices on the cost of living and local spend.