Pakistan-IMF talks on $7bn EFF review to start on Sept 23

Talks between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the fourth review of the more than $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme are likely to begin on September 23, reported 24NewsHD TV Channel.

According to the sources, the two sides will also discuss the third review of the $1.4 billion Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) programme focused on climate change. The negotiations on the EFF and RSF reviews are expected to be held simultaneously.

The talks will assess Pakistan’s economic performance during the second half of the last fiscal year, from January to June 2026, sources said. The IMF discussions will review progress under both programmes and assess Pakistan’s economic performance during the six-month period, they added

The IMF mission led by Iva Petrova to stay in Pakistan for approximately two weeks. The third review of the RSF program will also be part of the negotiations. sources indicate the IMF mission's review will cover economic performance up to June 2026. Pakistan will receive a $1 billion tranche upon a successful review. Moreover,  Pakistan will receive an additional $200 million under the RSF.

A total loan of $1.2 billion will be secured upon the successful completion of the IMF review. Sources indicate that the review will assess the FBR's tax collections and targets. The FBR's revenue collections for the first half of the year will be part of the review, according to sources. Sources state that the transfer of over Rs135 billion from the provinces to the center will also be reviewed. Discussions regarding the status of provincial surpluses will take place during the IMF review, sources add.

Reporter Waqas Azeem