Islamabad: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed serious concerns over rising “enterprise risks” in Pakistan, citing the country’s ongoing geopolitical tensions with India as a contributing factor. In its latest review, the global lender emphasized the need for stronger economic safeguards and outlined 11 new structural benchmarks that Pakistan must meet to secure the next tranche of its financial assistance.
The benchmarks include reforms in tax policy, energy sector restructuring, improved governance of state-owned enterprises, and measures to enhance fiscal transparency. The IMF noted that failure to implement these reforms could delay further disbursements and weaken Pakistan’s macroeconomic stability.
Officials familiar with the matter said the IMF is particularly concerned about external vulnerabilities and internal policy slippages that could arise if structural commitments are not honored. The benchmarks are seen as critical steps to restore investor confidence and put the economy on a sustainable recovery path.
The renewed conditions come as Pakistan continues to navigate a fragile economic landscape, marked by inflation, currency devaluation, and strained relations with its neighbors. The government has pledged to comply with the IMF’s conditions and is expected to present a roadmap for implementation in the coming weeks.
The situation underscores the delicate balance Pakistan must maintain between political stability, regional diplomacy, and economic reform to ensure continued international financial support.