Islamabad, November 27, 2025 – Pakistan’s Finance Minister Mohammad Aurangzeb on Thursday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to address corruption-related issues highlighted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its recent report.
Speaking to national television, Aurangzeb said, “These are points identified by the IMF that require action, and we will work to resolve them.” He added, “God willing, an agreement with the IMF will be reached. The IMF board’s upcoming decisions will guide the way forward.”
The IMF’s Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Assessment (GCDA), released last week, highlighted that persistent corruption and weak institutional structures continue to impede Pakistan’s economic development, even as the economy stabilizes under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF). The report emphasized that corruption negatively affects public spending, revenue collection, and trust in the legal system.
The report is a prerequisite for the IMF executive board’s approval of a $1.2 billion disbursement next month under the $7 billion program. While acknowledging progress achieved under the EFF, the IMF noted that Pakistanis frequently face unofficial payments to access basic services, and corruption diverts funds away from productive development.
The assessment also pointed to the influence of political and economic elites over key sectors, judicial inefficiencies, and structural weaknesses that hinder contract enforcement and property rights protection. It recommended a 15-point reform agenda, including ending special privileges for public institutions, implementing e-governance for procurement within 12 months, enhancing parliamentary oversight, and increasing transparency and accountability in fiscal and policy decisions.
Aurangzeb’s assurance signals the government’s intent to follow the IMF’s roadmap for governance reforms, aiming to strengthen institutions, reduce corruption, and support sustainable economic growth in Pakistan.
