Key Takeaways
- President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to economic reforms and fiscal sustainability.
- The government aims to pursue inclusive and green economic growth, with a focus on energy sector reforms and privatisation.
- Pakistan has recorded a primary surplus for the third consecutive year, with a fiscal deficit of 2.6% of GDP.
President Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to economic reforms and fiscal sustainability, during a meeting with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation in Islamabad.
In a statement, Zardari highlighted the government’s efforts to move from economic stabilisation towards recovery, citing an increase in the size of the economy to $452.1 billion in the fiscal year 2025-26.
He also noted that real gross domestic product (GDP) growth accelerated to 3.7% from 3.2% in the preceding fiscal year, reflecting a positive economic trajectory.
The president cited improvements in fiscal management, with the fiscal deficit declining to 2.6% of GDP in FY2025-26, and the country recording a primary surplus for the third consecutive year.
Zardari expressed appreciation for the IMF’s continued engagement with Pakistan and its support for the country’s reform programme under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).
He referred to the conclusion of the fourth review of the EFF and the third review of the RSF, along with the staff-level agreement, expressing confidence in the country’s continued progress towards economic recovery and stability.
The government is committed to increasing revenue mobilisation, improving tax administration, and reforming public sector institutions, with efforts underway to expand tax documentation, digitalise revenue collection, and curb tax evasion.
Zardari also highlighted the government’s focus on energy sector reforms and privatisation, aiming to ensure inclusive and green growth. He stated that these reforms are essential for the country’s long-term economic health and sustainability.
