Successful inflation effort could set stage for larger economic problems.(Venezuela)(Brief Article)

CARACAS -- Venezuelan officials say last year's inflation figures - a modest 13.4% - is proof the government's economic policies are bearing fruit. However, the achievement is built on questionable economic practices that could lead to significant problems in the future.

In early January, the Central Bank (BCV) announced with much fanfare that inflation last year was the lowest rate in 14 years, well under the government's own target of 15%-17%. In light of increased public spending, analysts had been skeptical the government could keep inflation below 20% and the announcement ...

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