IMF Delegation Visiting Pakistan by September End

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has confirmed that an International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation will arrive in Pakistan by the end of September for the next economic review. He stated that Pakistan is fully prepared for the review, which, if completed successfully, could unlock a $1 billion third tranche of IMF funds under the ongoing $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF).

Aurangzeb acknowledged a 41% increase in national debt but assured that repayments are on schedule and the situation will improve. He also mentioned that further interest rate cuts are expected soon, along with reductions in electricity prices, thanks to ongoing tariff reforms which initiated for the first time in 78 years.

Speaking at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the minister said the economy has stabilized over the past 18 months, with all major indicators showing improvement. He highlighted that the Pakistan Stock Exchange – PSX has reached record highs, reflecting strong investor confidence and a surge in new investors.

The government’s reforms agenda includes “right-sizing” over 400 departments to reduce expenses, privatization of state-owned enterprises, expanding the tax net to include agricultural income, and providing relief to salaried individuals. Aurangzeb stressed that broadening the tax base is the only sustainable path forward.