Pakistan and IMF Begin Formal Talks for Fifth Loan Tranche

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation has arrived in Islamabad to begin formal talks with Pakistan's economic team, led by the finance minister. The negotiations are aimed at reviewing the country's economic performance to secure the release of the fifth tranche of an ongoing loan facility. Key discussion points include fiscal measures like the petroleum levy, tax net expansion, circular debt reduction, and provincial revenue collection. The mission has already held preliminary meetings in Karachi with the State Bank and the Sindh government.