Pakistan trapped in IMF bailout cycle, report warns of mounting debt
Pakistan’s ongoing reliance on IMF loans highlights its deep vulnerabilities and lack of meaningful reform. The IMF’s support is keeping the country afloat temporarily, but it does nothing for long-term recovery, trapping Pakistan in a cycle of borrowing without solving the core issues.
The IMF’s latest review of Pakistan’s $7 billion Extended Financing Facility and $1.1 billion Resilience and Sustainability Facility found serious gaps, including nearly a trillion rupees shortfall in revenue and a staggering $11 billion discrepancy in trade data. Despite some progress, like meeting power sector benchmarks, Pakistan’s financial data remains suspect, prompting IMF demands for greater transparency.
With external debt soaring and reforms failing, Pakistan faces a persistent crisis, leaving it locked into borrowing without end. Even large-scale programs like the World Bank’s $20 billion initiative fall short against the country’s massive debt obligations.
