IMF to Finalize Review of Pakistan's Standby Arrangement

Washington DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is set to convene on April 29 to finalize the review of Pakistan's $3 billion Standby Arrangement (SBA). The meeting, scheduled for 10:00am, will mark a crucial step in the disbursement of the final $1.1 billion tranche under the program, initially agreed upon in June 2023.

Earlier this month, concerns arose when Pakistan's name was omitted from the IMF's meeting schedule, leading to speculation about a potential delay or renegotiation of the tranche. However, a former World Bank official dismissed these speculations, emphasizing that the IMF operates transparently and any delays would be openly communicated.

In March, Pakistan and the IMF reached a staff-level agreement, paving the way for the release of the final installment. To date, Pakistan has received $1.90 billion from the IMF in two installments, with the remaining $1.1 billion contingent on the board's approval at the upcoming meeting.

The IMF's decision on April 29 will be closely watched by stakeholders as Pakistan navigates its economic challenges amidst the ongoing global uncertainties.