IMF Delegation Likely to Visit Pakistan Next Month; FBR Performance a Key Concern

Islamabad: A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is expected to visit Pakistan next month, with the performance of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) emerging as a major challenge ahead of the upcoming review.

According to sources, the IMF team is likely to arrive by mid-next month to hold detailed discussions on the preparation of the 2026–27 budget and key economic targets.

Officials say the IMF remains concerned about the FBR’s weak performance, particularly its repeated failure to meet tax collection targets. Expanding the tax base and increasing revenue will be central to the مذاکرات, with the IMF expected to push for the mandatory implementation of digital tax systems and invoicing to improve compliance.

In addition, talks will cover reforms in the energy sector, strategies to reduce circular debt, and possible adjustments in electricity and gas tariffs.

The IMF delegation is also expected to review Pakistan’s privatization program and reforms in state-owned enterprises. Issues related to governance, transparency, and anti-corruption measures will also be on the agenda.

Sources indicate that the release of the next tranche of IMF funding will depend on Pakistan’s performance in the upcoming review. Failure to meet agreed targets could result in additional conditions being imposed.