The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has called on Pakistan to adopt a standardized approach to treating foreign investors and to eliminate tax exemptions in Special Economic Zones (SEZs). This move is part of the IMF’s broader push for a uniform investment policy that would apply to all countries, including those in the Gulf and Europe, to ensure equitable treatment of foreign investors.

The IMF’s mission is set to meet with Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) on November 15 to discuss these proposed reforms. The mission has also reviewed Pakistan’s current SEZ policies and has requested a comprehensive report on potential adjustments to be submitted by the following day.

In addition to these investment policy recommendations, the IMF has expressed concerns over several economic challenges facing Pakistan, including a revenue shortfall, the energy sector’s circular debt, and the national fiscal policy. Discussions have also covered necessary reforms in state-owned enterprises (SOEs), the implementation of a track and trace system for retailers, and strategies to achieve fiscal targets.

The IMF has emphasized the importance of implementing these agreed-upon reforms to ensure continued financial assistance to Pakistan, highlighting the critical need for structural changes to support the country’s economic stability and growth.