A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has arrived in Islamabad to conduct an economic review, which is crucial for the release of the next $1 billion tranche from the $7 billion bailout package. The review discussions will continue until March 15.

According to sources from the Ministry of Finance, the review will be conducted in two phases—technical discussions in the first phase, followed by policy-level talks in the second. The nine-member IMF team, led by Nathan Porter, will also provide recommendations for Pakistan’s fiscal year 2025-26 budget.

Officials stated that any relief for salaried individuals would depend on IMF approval. The delegation will engage with key financial and economic institutions, including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Energy, Planning Division, and the State Bank of Pakistan. Additionally, discussions will be held with regulatory bodies such as the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), and National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA).

The visit is expected to play a significant role in shaping Pakistan’s economic policies and securing further financial assistance from the IMF.