Published on, Sept. 23 -- September 23, 2025 8:45 AM

The IMF review Pakistan for the USD 7 billion Extended Fund Facility is expected this month. The programme began on 27 September 2024 and runs for 36 months. Exact dates are kept secret due to security concerns. Approval of last year's budget was a prior condition for the review.

Critics argue the budget's contractionary fiscal and monetary policies may hinder the economy from reaching the projected 4.2 percent GDP growth. The IMF had already lowered growth to 3.6 percent in April 2025. Recent floods could worsen the economic outlook, causing damage estimated at USD 40 billion.

The IMF is unlikely to insist on all harsh conditions due to flood devastation. Any relief measures, includ...