Pakistan Pressed on Reforms in IMF Negotiations
The International Monetary Fund has asked Pakistan for a detailed report on anti-money laundering measures during continuing negotiations for the seven billion dollar loan program.
Officials said IMF wants updates on the Governance and Corruption Risk Assessment Report along with establishment of provincial enforcement agencies against money laundering and corruption.
The lender will also seek a briefing on legislative measures concerning asset declarations of officers from grade seventeen to twenty two across government departments.
Finance Ministry plans to present progress on the National Fiscal Package, capital market reforms, and government strategies for enhancing transparency in development related expenditures.
Authorities confirmed IMF will be informed about delays in completing the Governance and Corruption Risk Assessment Report, considered central to the current review.
Read More: Islamabad Under Pressure as IMF Questions Tax Targets
The Fund has also requested a review of Pakistan performance in the first fiscal quarter with technical discussions planned before policy-level negotiations begin.
Officials are optimistic that successful conclusion of talks will lead to release of the one billion tranche, subject to approval from the IMF board.
So far, Pakistan has received 2.1 billion dollars under the program signed in September 2024, while further disbursements remain tied to strict conditions.
Last week, IMF voiced concerns over missed revenue goals after the Federal Board of Revenue disclosed Rs11.74 trillion collection against an ambitious annual target of Rs12.97 trillion.
Officials attributed the shortfall to weakening economic activity, declining inflation, devastating floods, and prolonged court cases that continue to delay recovery of more than Rs250 billion in disputed taxes.
They warned the quarterly goal of Rs3.1 trillion remains difficult, requiring Rs140 billion daily, a pace considered unrealistic under current market and administrative conditions.
