The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has completed a mission to Malawi and made progress in discussions on a possible Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement aimed at supporting the country’s economic recovery and reform agenda.

The IMF delegation, led by Mission Chief Justin Tyson, visited Lilongwe and Blantyre from June 8 to 18 to assess recent economic developments and discuss policy priorities under the government’s National Economic Recovery Plan (NERP).

In a statement issued at the end of the mission, Tyson said discussions focused on Malawi’s economic outlook, fiscal reforms and measures to restore macroeconomic stability.

The IMF acknowledged efforts by the government to align domestic prices with global market conditions, strengthen public finances and address food security challenges.

During the visit, the IMF team held meetings with Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Joseph Mwanamvekha, Reserve Bank of Malawi Governor, George Partridge, Secretary to the Treasury, Cliff Chiunda, and other senior government officials.

The delegation also consulted representatives from the private sector, commercial banks and development partners as part of its assessment of the country’s economic situation.

According to the IMF, discussions on a package of economic reforms that could be supported through an Extended Credit Facility arrangement will continue in the coming months.

An ECF programme would provide concessional financing and policy support to help Malawi implement reforms aimed at stabilising the economy and promoting sustainable growth.

Reporter: Aspolo Mousah, Lilongwe