The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has introduced 11 new structural benchmarks for Pakistan under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), putting major focus on tax reforms, energy pricing, accountability laws and investment policies.

According to the IMF report, Pakistan will gradually end the powers of the Board of Investment (BOI), Board of Approval (BOA) and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to independently grant tax incentives through the upcoming federal budget.

The reforms also include phasing out fiscal incentives for Special Technology Zones by 2035 and replacing profit-based incentives with cost-based mechanisms to create a more transparent investment environment.

In the energy sector, the government agreed to continue semi-annual gas tariff adjustments and yearly electricity tariff revisions to maintain cost-recovery levels. These measures are expected to be implemented between July 2026 and February 2027.

The IMF programme also seeks stronger autonomy and transparency for the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). Proposed amendments include a merit-based process for appointing senior officials under the supervision of a multi-sectoral committee.

Pakistan has further committed to centralising tax audit case selection through a Compliance Risk Management system using data-driven monitoring of high-risk cases. Authorities will also prepare a unified audit policy and manual.

Meanwhile, the government plans to amend PPRA rules to end preferential treatment for state-owned enterprises in public procurement contracts awarded without competition.

The report further said the State Bank of Pakistan will prepare a roadmap for gradual liberalisation of the foreign exchange regime while protecting economic stability.