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The Economy of Zimbabwe

Dollarisation and Partial Recovery

In 2009 Zimbabwe abandoned its currency and adopted the US dollar and other foreign currencies, ending hyperinflation and restoring growth.

A foreign currency as a fix.

2009

The Zimbabwe dollar was suspended and foreign currencies became legal tender.

Results

Inflation collapsed, and growth returned.

Limits

The country lost the ability to print money, but also faced a shortage of dollars.

Later problems

Cash shortages and the reintroduction of local currencies led to inflation again.

A stable price

Shop prices became stable for the first time in years.

Assuming dollarisation solves every problem

Dollar shortages emerge.

Key takeaways
  • Foreign currencies became legal tender.
  • Inflation fell.
  • Dollar shortages arose.
  • Local currencies returned.
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