In its recent report on the Middle East and Central Asian countries, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has highlighted that the Palestinian-Israeli conflict may enhance problems for the region.
The report forecasts that Pakistan’s growth rate in 2024 is expected to surpass that of 2023, indicating a positive trajectory for the country’s economy. It also indicates that weak fiscal policies and increased electricity and gas tariffs led to inflation.
Pakistan is also facing external payment pressure, and had to incur huge debt repayments and Eurobonds. The IMF notes that Pakistan has had to rely heavily on borrowing from banks to meet its domestic payment obligations, leading to reduced credit availability for the private sector.
The report emphasizes the need for Pakistan to focus on reducing spending and subsidies, ending tax exemptions, and enhancing tax collection to address fiscal imbalances. It suggests that lifting trade bans could boost exports by 15%, while improvements in trade infrastructure could lead to an 8% increase in exports. Additionally, streamlining regulatory processes could further enhance export potential by 6%.
The IMF report acknowledges that armed conflicts, the import of petroleum products, and structural issues continue to hinder Pakistan’s economic recovery. Meeting the financial needs of government institutions remains a significant challenge, with implications for both public and private sector credit availability.
Furthermore, the report suggests that leveraging digital technology and enhancing customs facilitation could provide avenues for boosting exports and stimulating economic growth.
Overall, the IMF report underscores the importance of addressing fiscal vulnerabilities and implementing reforms to unlock Pakistan’s export potential and ensure sustainable economic development in the face of various challenges.
