IMF delegation visits SBP as Pakistan awaits fourth tranche of $7b loan programme

KARACHI: A high-level delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has arrived at the State Bank of Pakistan to conduct review talks on the fourth tranche of the country’s $7 billion loan program. The visit comes amid ongoing efforts to stabilise Pakistan’s economy and implement key fiscal and structural reforms.

During their visit, the IMF delegation held extensive meetings with senior officials at the central bank, receiving detailed briefings on the country’s economic performance, financial indicators, and related data management issues. Officials also provided updates on foreign exchange reserves, inflation trends, fiscal policy measures, and ongoing economic reforms aimed at ensuring macroeconomic stability.

The discussions are part of the third economic review under Pakistan’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program. In addition to the EFF, the IMF team is reviewing progress on the $1.1 billion Sustainability and Environmental Support Facility, which focuses on supporting Pakistan’s green and environmental initiatives.

In the coming days, the IMF delegation is expected to hold meetings with the Ministry of Finance and other relevant institutions. Following these consultations, the mission will compile a comprehensive review report. If the report is positive, it could pave the way for the release of the next tranche of funds, providing crucial support to Pakistan’s ongoing economic recovery.

Officials noted that these discussions are a critical step in maintaining dialogue with the IMF and ensuring continued international support amid challenging economic conditions.