Islamabad, October 3, 2024- International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mission Chief to Pakistan Nathan Porter has said that the country’s program is not overly strict and if Pakistan sincerely implements the recommended economic reforms, this could potentially be its last program with the IMF.
In an interview, Porter mentioned that Pakistan has seen economic stability since mid-2023, following a period of volatility and uncertainty in its economic indicators. Porter stressed that the current program provides a solid foundation for economic progress, but it is closely tied to the implementation of the proposed reforms. If these reforms are carried out with honesty and seriousness, this could indeed be Pakistan’s final program with the IMF.
Regarding the question of tough loan conditions, the IMF Mission Chief dismissed the notion that Pakistan’s program involves stringent terms.
Furthermore, Porter opposed granting special concessions to businesses within Special Economic Zones (SEZs), stating that the IMF does not view such incentives as helpful in achieving economic objectives.
