Portuguese economist Ricardo Reis, a professor at the London School of Economics, is said to have been removed from the race for chief economist of the International Monetary Fund after openly criticizing the tariff policy of US President Donald Trump. The information was reported by the Financial Times, which states that the decision was made at the last minute.
Ricardo Reis was considered one of the favorites for the position, which became vacant after the departure of Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas. The Portuguese economist is recognized for his research in macroeconomics and public finances, having published several studies on public debt and monetary policy.
Reis's criticism of Trump's tariff policy is said to have been decisive in his exclusion from the selection process. The White House traditionally exerts strong influence over the appointment for the position of IMF chief economist, given that the United States is the largest shareholder of the institution.
The position of IMF chief economist is considered one of the most influential in the global economic landscape, responsible for guiding the organization's analysis and forecasts on the global economy. The nomination for this position requires the support of the fund's major shareholders, including the United States.
