IMF Lowers Pakistan GDP Growth Projection to 3.6% Against Government’s 4.2% Target
The IMF has projected Pakistan’s GDP growth for 2025-26 at 3.6%, below the government’s 4.2% target, citing evolving economic conditions and global uncertainties. The forecast does not yet reflect the impact of recent monsoon floods.
IMF forecasts Pakistan’s net government debt to rise to 65.7% of GDP by 2026
The IMF’s latest Fiscal Monitor report projects Pakistan’s net government debt to increase to 65.7% of GDP by 2026, alongside a modest improvement in fiscal balance and revenue performance.
Pakistan Records Unexpected 5.7% Growth in Q4 on Industrial Rebound
Pakistan has reported an unexpected 5.7% economic growth in the last quarter of FY25, driven by strong performance in the industrial sector and major revisions in key economic indicators, signaling resilience despite tight fiscal conditions.
Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry urges Federal Board of Revenue to release Rs96.6 billion in pending tax refunds to ease liquidity pressure on foreign investors
The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry has called on the Federal Board of Revenue to expedite Rs96.6 billion in pending tax refunds, warning that delays are hurting liquidity, business planning, and investor confidence in Pakistan’s economy.
Pakistan Extends Rs61 Billion in Tax Exemptions Under Trade Agreements to Boost Regional Commerce
Pakistan granted Rs61 billion in tax exemptions during FY2023–24 under various Free Trade and Preferential Trade Agreements, primarily benefiting imports from China, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. The move aims to enhance trade competitiveness and regional integration, though experts caution that growing exemptions warrant stronger fiscal oversight.
Pakistan’s Domestic Debt Surges to Rs54 Trillion in August Amid Fiscal Pressures
Pakistan’s total government domestic debt and liabilities surged to Rs54.28 trillion in August 2025, reflecting an 11.57% year-on-year increase, according to new data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). While long-term borrowing expanded sharply, short-term obligations declined, highlighting the government’s strategy to manage debt maturity risks amid tightening fiscal conditions.
IMF Presses Pakistan for Transparency Over $11 Billion Trade Data Discrepancy
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised concerns over an $11 billion gap in Pakistan’s trade data, urging the government to publicly clarify discrepancies between figures reported by PRAL and PSW, amid growing doubts over the reliability of the country’s external sector statistics.
Revenue Challenges in Pakistan Highlight Capacity Gaps Beyond NFC Allocations
Pakistan’s growing debt and revenue challenges are rooted in limited provincial tax generation, public sector inefficiencies, and underutilized resources, rather than the current NFC award formula.
ADB Maintains Pakistan’s FY26 Growth Forecast at 3pc Amid Regional Trade Slowdown
ADB projects Pakistan’s economy to grow by 3% in FY26, maintaining its forecast despite regional trade pressures, while revising FY25 growth to 2.7% amid stronger industrial and services sector performance.
Rethinking the Criticism: Why Banks Prefer Government Lending Amid Pakistan’s Economic Realities
Furqan Ali critiques the widespread perception of opportunism in Pakistan’s banking sector, arguing that reliance on government lending is a calculated response to deeper structural flaws. He urges for major public finance and economic reforms to enable a more balanced credit environment.