The International Monetary Fund (IMF) raised concerns about the petrol subsidy scheme announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
International Monetary Fund (IMF) representative to Pakistan Esther Pérez Ruiz said that Islamabad has not consulted with the lender on the petrol subsidy scheme.
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“The IMF is seeking more details about the scheme from Pakistan.” Esther Pérez Ruiz said the IMF has already rejected unfunded and untargeted subsidies.
Ruiz reiterated that the IMF views strengthening support for those eligible for social assistance through unconditional cash transfer schemes as the most direct way to assist the neediest in Pakistan.
The announcement of the fuel subsidy could potentially delay the staff-level agreement between Pakistan and the IMF, as the government remains engaged in discussions with the lender over the stalled bailout programme.
The IMF official also lauded Pakistan’s efforts in the revival of the stalled loan program.
Remember that Last week, Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif announces that low-income poor people would be given a subsidy of Rs 50 per litre on fuel under the petroleum relief package.
While chairing a review meeting on the relief package in Islamabad, the prime minister said the petroleum relief will be given to low-income consumers who have motorcycles, rickshaws, 800 cc cars, and other small cars.
