IMF Urges Pakistan to Take Strict Measures Against Money Laundering Ahead of Budget

ISLAMABAD: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed concern over suspicious financial transactions and trade-related irregularities, directing the Pakistani government to adopt stricter anti-money laundering measures ahead of the upcoming federal budget.

According to sources, during discussions related to preparations for the next fiscal year’s budget, the IMF emphasized the need for immediate and effective action against trade-based money laundering.

The global financial institution urged Pakistan to strengthen mechanisms aimed at preventing money laundering through trade channels, address loopholes in the exchange of beneficial ownership information, and further tighten the country’s financial monitoring system.

The IMF also raised concerns regarding the monitoring of suspicious transactions in the banking sector, non-financial business entities, and other economic sectors.

Sources further revealed that the institution highlighted the presence of black money and untaxed investments in certain sectors, stressing the importance of stronger oversight and regulatory enforcement to improve financial transparency and compliance.