Summary The IMF’s next review mission is expected during the second half of 2026, while the economic implications of tensions in the Middle East were also examined during the talks.
ISLAMABAD (Staff Reporter) – The Pakistani government has accelerated implementation of reforms linked to conditions set by the International Monetary Fund after an IMF delegation concluded scheduled negotiations and departed from the country.
According to sources in the Ministry of Finance, virtual discussions with the IMF regarding Pakistan’s budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year will continue from Thursday.
Officials said the IMF has sought a three-year macroeconomic framework from Pakistan as part of discussions tied to the release of the next loan tranche. Budget targets for the upcoming fiscal year are also expected to be finalised during the virtual negotiations.
A statement issued after the talks said the IMF delegation had completed its scheduled meetings and returned home, while stressing the need for Pakistan to broaden the tax net and improve tax collection mechanisms.
The discussions also reaffirmed the commitment to maintain a primary surplus target of two per cent of GDP by 2027. Authorities further agreed to closely monitor the economic impact of rising energy prices.
According to officials, the negotiations reviewed progress on reforms in the energy sector, state-owned enterprises and financial governance. Climate financing, power subsidy reforms and disaster management frameworks also came under discussion.
The IMF’s next review mission is expected during the second half of 2026, while the economic implications of tensions in the Middle East were also examined during the talks.
Meanwhile, the Federal Board of Revenue has moved swiftly to implement measures aimed at curbing tax leakage and increasing revenue collection.
Under a new notification issued by the FBR, the government has decided to introduce electronic monitoring of production in registered industries involved in packaged milk, iron and steel, edible oil and ghee manufacturing.
The notification stated that the move was taken under powers granted through Sections 50 and 40C of the Sales Tax Act 1990. Production in these industries will now be monitored immediately through an electronic system under Rule 150ZQR of Chapter XIV-BA of the Sales Tax Rules 2006.
Authorities said the initiative is intended to improve transparency in the tax system, obtain accurate production and sales data, and prevent tax evasion.
The FBR added that the notification has come into immediate effect and expressed hope that digital monitoring would strengthen oversight of the relevant industries while
