ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are set to begin a new round of economic negotiations today, Monday, September 28, 2026, with discussions expected to focus on the country’s economic performance, tax targets and, in particular, the petroleum levy.
According to sources, the talks will continue until October 7, 2026.
IMF Review and Key Meetings
Sources said the IMF delegation will conduct the fourth review of Pakistan’s performance under the ongoing loan programme during its visit.
The delegation is also scheduled to meet Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. Policy-level discussions are expected to take place in the first week of October regarding the release of the next loan tranche.
Petroleum Levy Collection Exceeds Target
According to sources in the Ministry of Finance, the government achieved a significant milestone in petroleum levy collection by June 2026.
Against a target of Rs1,468 billion, the government collected Rs1,567 billion under the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL), exceeding the target by Rs99 billion.
Key Points of IMF Briefing
During the negotiations, the IMF delegation will be briefed on several key issues, including:
The petrol subsidy scheme introduced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Detailed tax and non-tax revenue figures recorded up to June 30, 2026.
Progress made toward meeting the country’s fiscal and economic targets.
According to economic experts, Pakistan has achieved most of its fiscal and economic targets. Sources have expressed hope that, if the negotiations conclude successfully, the IMF will approve the release of the next tranche under the ongoing programme.
