- Focus on economic developments, reforms and the budget strategy for 2027.
- The SBP reiterates its commitment to a tight monetary policy stance.
- The goal of anchoring inflation expectations remains a key priority.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission on Wednesday concluded its discussions with Finance Ministry officials, focusing on economic developments, fiscal plans for the next fiscal year (FY2027-28) and the progress of reforms under programs supported by the fund, it said in a statement.
The IMF said authorities in Islamabad have committed to achieving a primary surplus target of 2% of gross domestic product in fiscal year 2027.
The fund team, led by advisor Iva Petrova, visited Islamabad from May 13 to 20 for discussions focused on economic developments, the progress of reforms and the impact of conflict-related disruptions in the Middle East.
In early May, the IMF authorized the South Asian nation to access around $1.32 billion in new financing. The country is in a 7 billion dollar IMF program.
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has committed to maintaining an “appropriately tight monetary policy stance” to anchor inflation expectations and will continue to closely monitor potential second-round effects of energy price increases, the IMF said.
Discussions on the fiscal year 2027 budget will continue in the coming days, the fund added.
The IMF said its next mission, which will include consultations and reviews under certain agreements, is planned for the second half of 2026.
