IMF expresses confidence in Sindh’s economic performance, urges increased public welfare funding

Economic review talks between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are underway, with the IMF mission expressing confidence in Sindh’s economic performance.

According to sources, the IMF acknowledged that Sindh has met most of its economic targets. The provincial finance secretary met with the IMF mission last evening to provide a detailed review of Sindh’s performance over the past eight months.

The briefing highlighted that Sindh recorded a surplus of Rs. 264 billion in the first half of the current fiscal year. Additionally, the IMF was briefed on the performance of the Sindh Revenue Board and the province’s single sales tax return policy, which the mission appreciated.

Furthermore, discussions covered complexities surrounding agricultural income tax, with officials stating that different tax rates would apply between July 2024 and June 2025.

The IMF advised Sindh to increase funding for education, healthcare, and clean drinking water projects, while also emphasizing the need to improve the quality of life in underdeveloped districts of the province.