Pakistan’s economic rescue mission faces its next test as an IMF team touches down in Islamabad on February 25. The group will audit the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program, a cornerstone of the country’s stabilization drive.
Announcing via press conference, IMF spokesperson Julie Kozack specified the third EFF review and second RSF assessment. Tied to policy adherence and reform milestones, these sessions will gauge Pakistan’s performance against agreed goals.
Optimism colored her update. Policy measures have steadied the economy and revived faith among stakeholders. Fiscal metrics shone with a 1.3% GDP primary surplus for FY2025, hitting the mark. Inflation moderated effectively, complemented by a rare current account surplus in FY2025 after over a decade.
Reforms in governance drew applause. A new anti-corruption blueprint simplifies taxes, promotes fair procurement, and boosts asset transparency. On the ground, the team will assess fiscal prudence, inflation management, external account health, and systemic overhauls.
Repeatedly battered by balance-of-payments woes and price surges, Pakistan leans heavily on IMF frameworks for revival. The EFF’s long-term loans hinge on reform success, unlocked via rigorous reviews. With stakes high, this visit could herald progress or prompt course corrections in Pakistan’s financial saga.