Pakistan’s government external debt stood at $92.2 billion at the end of March 2026, according to the Economic Survey of Pakistan 2025-26, highlighting the country’s continued reliance on external financing while showing a slower pace of debt accumulation compared to the previous year. The survey revealed that during the first nine months of fiscal year […]
IMF
IMF pushes Pakistan to raise provincial revenue targets sharply
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has significantly increased provincial tax collection targets for Pakistan in the upcoming fiscal year, calling for a 64 per cent rise as part of ongoing fiscal reforms under its support programme, according to official documents. Read More: IMF approves $1.2 billion tranche for Pakistan Under the revised framework, provincial revenue authorities […]
Tax relief proposals await IMF approval before FY27 budget
The federal government is awaiting approval from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a package of tax relief measures ahead of the 2026-27 budget, while simultaneously negotiating new revenue-generating proposals to meet ambitious tax collection targets. Read More: Budget 2026 sees tax reform proposals According to officials, the proposed relief package includes reductions in income tax slabs for […]
IMF talks over PSDP likely to delay budget until June 10
The federal government has revised the schedule for the upcoming budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, with the presentation now expected on June 10 instead of June 5, sources said on Tuesday. According to official sources, the change comes amid ongoing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) over the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) […]
IMF asks Pakistan to raise GST to 19% in budget 2026-27
Ahead of the 2026-27 federal budget, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has asked Pakistan to increase the standard General Sales Tax (GST) rate by one percentage point, from 18% to 19%. However, Pakistani authorities have so far resisted it tooth and nail, arguing that it would further hike inflationary pressure, The News reported. According to […]
IMF backs Pakistan’s fiscal stability efforts
The International Monetary Fund has reaffirmed support for Pakistan’s fiscal stability efforts and agreed to continue discussions with authorities on the upcoming federal budget and economic reforms. An IMF mission led by Eva Petrova visited Islamabad from May 13 to 20 to review recent economic developments, reform progress and budget planning for fiscal year 2027. […]
IMF mission wraps up Pakistan visit, budget talks to continue ‘in coming days’
Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will continue discussions on the federal budget for fiscal year 2027 in the coming days, following the conclusion of a staff-level visit in which both sides reviewed recent economic developments, fiscal targets, and progress on reforms under the country’s ongoing loan programmes. An IMF mission led by Iva […]
IMF proposes higher BISP payments in Pakistan talks
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has proposed increasing financial assistance under Pakistan’s Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) by Rs5,500, as discussions continue over economic reforms and the upcoming federal budget. According to official sources, the IMF has recommended raising the quarterly BISP stipend from Rs14,500 to Rs20,000 to provide greater financial relief to low-income households […]
IMF revenue target raises cost pressures, warns PIAF
The Pakistan Industrial and Traders Associations Front (PIAF) has expressed concern over the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) projection of a Rs17.1 trillion federal revenue target for 2026-27, warning that the aggressive revenue mobilisation plan, combined with already high energy tariffs and policy pressures, could further strain industrial growth and exports. PIAF Chairman Faheemur Rehman Saigol, […]
Pakistan’s circular debt in energy sector rises to Rs5.2 trillion
Pakistan’s circular debt in the energy sector has climbed to Rs5,206 billion, highlighting continued financial stress in the country’s power and gas systems, according to the latest figures cited in an International Monetary Fund (IMF) report. Read More: Power sector circular debt edges up despite payments The report shows that the total circular debt includes Rs3,442 […]