ADB Approves $800M ⁢Program to Bolster Pakistan’s Fiscal Sustainability

Updated June 04, 2025

The‍ Asian Development‍ Bank⁣ (ADB) has greenlit an $800 million program designed ​to strengthen fiscal sustainability and⁤ improve⁤ public financial⁢ management in‍ Pakistan. The Manila-based lender announced the‍ “Improved Resource Mobilisation and Utilisation Reform Programme” includes a $300​ million⁣ policy-based​ loan.

Furthermore, the ⁤ADB is providing its first-ever policy-based guarantee of up⁤ to $500 million.⁤ This guarantee ⁢is​ projected to unlock‌ up⁤ to $1‌ billion in financing from commercial⁤ banks,according‍ to the ADB.

Emma Fan,⁢ ADB⁢ country‌ director for Pakistan,⁤ noted Pakistan’s progress in improving macroeconomic conditions.​ She saeid the program supports the government’s commitment ⁤to further policy and institutional reforms, which will strengthen public finances and promote ​lasting growth.

The program targets improvements in tax policy, administration, and compliance. It ​also seeks to ⁤enhance public expenditure and​ cash management, according ‌to‍ the ADB. The initiative promotes ⁣digitalization,investment facilitation,and private sector⁢ development.

These measures are intended to reduce Pakistan’s fiscal⁣ deficit and public debt. The ADB said this will create more ⁢fiscal space for social programs‌ and development spending.

Khurram Schehzad, adviser to ‌the finance minister, confirmed the program’s approval. He noted‍ the‍ Economic Affairs Division and Ministry of Finance secured majority support at the ADB Board.

What’s next

The program includes technical assistance and close‍ coordination with development ⁢partners. This extensive support package is designed to help Pakistan⁤ build long-term fiscal resilience and stability.