The Bahamian economy grew by an estimated 1% in 2017. This continues a period of negative or low growth, which started in 2012, and which has also included consecutive declines in the economy from 2014 to 2016. Growth in 2017 was largely driven by the impact of increased growth in the United States of America (USA), the opening of Baha Mar in April, and related Parent Taxonomy: Construction sector activities. Notwithstanding, economic activity was tempered by the passage of Hurricane Irma. The unemployment rate decreased from 12.2% in 2016 to 10% in 2017, in line with the increased economic activity.