The final review of a $3 billion bailout between the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Pakistan concluded at the staff level. Pakistan is poised to receive $1.1 billion pending Executive Board approval, as announced by the IMF. The accord credits Pakistan’s recent solid performance and future reform plans to achieve sustainable growth. The IMF anticipates Board consideration of the review in late April, following the new government’s formation.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and IMF’s Nathan Porter led the concluding session of discussions, keeping details private due to IMF rules. Previously, the IMF approved a nine-month support program for Pakistan, enabling an initial $1.2 billion disbursement, subject to further reviews.
A Staff-Level Agreement (SLA) was reached in November 2023 for the program’s first review, awaiting Executive Board endorsement. Following a successful review, a $700 million tranche was disbursed in January, boosting Pakistan’s foreign reserves. The new Finance Minister hints at seeking a more substantial IMF bailout. The IMF is open to designing a new economic program per the new government’s request.
Ministerial meetings and related activities are scheduled from April 15 to 20, with Pakistan confirming participation and the new finance minister leading the delegation.