IMF Mission Leaves After Completing Talks, Virtual Discussions on Budget Continue

Islamabad: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission present in Islamabad has departed after completing scheduled negotiations on Pakistan’s upcoming fiscal year budget and economic targets, while virtual discussions between Pakistan and the IMF will continue.

According to Ministry of Finance sources, online talks with the IMF are set to resume from tomorrow, focusing on fiscal year 2026–27 budget targets, tax reforms, and the broader macroeconomic framework. The IMF has reportedly also requested Pakistan’s three-year macroeconomic framework.

Sources said the IMF mission emphasized expanding the tax net and improving tax collection efficiency during the discussions. It was also agreed that the State Bank of Pakistan will continue its tight monetary policy to control inflation.

Official statements noted that the government has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a primary surplus equivalent to 2% of GDP by 2027. The talks also covered reforms in the energy sector, privatization of state-owned enterprises, power subsidies, and overall fiscal discipline.

The IMF also discussed climate financing and disaster management systems, along with the potential economic impact of ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Ministry officials said that budget targets will be finalized through upcoming virtual sessions, while the next IMF review mission is expected in the second half of the current year.