IMF Presents New Demands in Ongoing Budget Talks with Government

Islamabad (Web Desk): As budget negotiations continue between the government and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), additional demands from the IMF have emerged.

According to sources, the IMF has insisted that all pre-agreed conditions must be fully implemented in the upcoming federal and provincial budgets.

Furthermore, the IMF has requested written assurances from provincial governments regarding steps to reduce expenditures. Provinces have also been urged to introduce concrete measures aimed at improving the business climate in their budgets.

The IMF has made it clear that both federal and provincial governments must avoid providing any subsidies on electricity and gas. Provincial governments have also been directed to downsize public sector employment (right-sizing) and impose a ban on new hiring.

Additionally, the IMF has emphasized the need to engage political parties in parliament to ensure the achievement of economic targets and to secure their support for implementation.

To combat electricity and gas theft and smuggling, the IMF has called for coordinated efforts between federal and provincial authorities. Provinces have also been asked to develop a clear strategy for taxing agricultural income and services, and to integrate this policy into their budget plans.