ISLAMABAD – A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reached Islamabad to conduct an economic review crucial for the release of the next $1 billion tranche from the $7 billion bailout package, sources from the Ministry of Finance confirmed.

The discussions between the IMF and Pakistani officials will take place until March 15, beginning with technical assessments, followed by policy-level negotiations. A nine-member IMF team, led by Nathan Porter, will stay in Pakistan for two weeks, providing recommendations for the fiscal year 2025-26 budget.

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

The review is part of Pakistan’s broader efforts to meet IMF conditions for securing financial support, ensuring economic stability, and finalizing key budgetary decisions for the upcoming fiscal year.