Banking & Finance IMF says Lebanon needs new strategy to reboot economy By Reuters March 28, 2025, 9:59 AM Reuters/Mohamed Azakir People walk past Lebanon's Central Bank building in Beirut. The IMF is calling for greater data transparency in the Lebanese economy Lebanon needs a comprehensive strategy for rebooting its economy in order to access a programme with the International Monetary Fund, with stress on data transparency, the IMF said on Thursday. “First and foremost, what is needed is a comprehensive strategy for economic rehabilitation,” said spokesperson Julie Kozack in a press briefing. She confirmed that the government had formally requested a new programme during an IMF mission to Lebanon that took place earlier in March. Kozack said the reform programme should focus on fiscal and debt sustainability as well as a restructuring of the financial sector, reforms to governance and state-owned enterprises. “Critically, it’s going to be important to enhance data provision, to improve transparency and to inform policymaking,” Kozack said. Lebanon bondholders pick US bank for debt talks Economy in Lebanon remains severely depressed, IMF says Lebanon bonds rally to near-5-year high with new government Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said earlier this month that discussions with the IMF emphasised the need to finalise a loan programme before the summer of 2025. A more than five-year financial crisis has collapsed the Lebanese economy, compounded by last year’s war between the armed group Hezbollah and Israel. Register now: It’s easy and free AGBI registered members can access even more of our unique analysis and perspective on business and economics in the Middle East. Why sign uP Exclusive weekly email from our editor-in-chief Personalised weekly emails for your preferred industry sectors Read and download our insight packed white papers Access to our mobile app Prioritised access to live events Register for free Already registered? Sign in I’ll register later
