Tag: IMF

Pakistan's forex reserves have recovered significantly, but stability remains managed by external support (IMF, rollovers), not secured by self-sufficiency. The economy faces huge continuous strain from debt servicing (around $22B annually) and a large trade deficit ($35B projected). Stagnant exports and reliance on imports keep the situation vulnerable. To secure stability, Pakistan must prioritize structural reforms focused on reducing import dependency and aggressively boosting exports and remittances. The current calm is only a temporary "base camp."

Pakistan is facing a dollar shortage, a problem worsened by the recent floods that have disrupted the foreign exchange market. The scarcity of dollars could jeopardize the rupee's recent winning streak, as banks and exchange outlets have been submerged. While the shortage is expected to be temporary, analysts warn it could strain the country's foreign exchange reserves and hinder imports. Despite a recent upgrade and rising remittances, a survey indicates that nearly half of market participants expect the rupee to weaken to 285-290 per dollar by year-end.

In a significant victory for consumers and the environment, a National Assembly panel has unanimously rejected the proposed 18% sales tax on solar panel imports. Furthermore, the government has confirmed it will withdraw the controversial tax increase on hybrid vehicles. This pivotal decision rolls back two highly debated budget measures, offering relief and renewed optimism for sustainable solutions in Pakistan.

Pakistan’s banks are setting global records, just not the kind we want. Government bonds and loans now comprise 60 percent of our banking sector’s assets, […]

ISLAMABAD: The government has decided to immediately abolish the 3% Federal Excise Duty (FED) previously charged on the first sale of all properties in Pakistan […]

ISLAMABAD: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has firmly rejected the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) request to reduce property taxes and related transaction levies for […]

Pakistan’s obsession with real estate presents a curious contradiction: despite almost every household experiencing some form of fraud or financial loss, real estate remains the […]