International Monetary Fund Managing Director urges emerging markets to boost private sector-led growth and integration as their global share exceeds 56 percent

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva used remarks at the 2026 AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies to argue that emerging markets are better positioned than in the past to navigate a reset in global trade and financial systems, but should focus on reforms that unlock private sector-led growth and deepen regional and cross-regional integration. She pointed to IMF research indicating stronger policy frameworks across emerging markets, including more independent central banks, clearer inflation targets, reduced reliance on foreign exchange intervention, and wider adoption of fiscal rules. Growth across emerging markets was put at around 4 percent in 2026 versus about 1.5 percent for advanced economies, with emerging markets’ share of the global economy having doubled since 2000 to over 56 percent, while warning that growth remains below pre-pandemic trends amid depleted fiscal buffers, high spending pressures, and rising debt. The two priorities highlighted were cutting red tape, deepening financial markets, strengthening institutions, improving governance, and upgrading skills, alongside lowering barriers and strengthening integration through regional initiatives such as the Gulf Cooperation Council, ASEAN, the African Continental Free Trade Area, and Mercosur. Georgieva also noted the AlUla conference’s expanded participation and the addition of closed-door thematic sessions, with discussions set to cover global trade prospects, managing uncertainty, monetary policy, and the role of private sector-led growth.