IMF Ready to Continue Supporting Sri Lanka

18-Oct-2026

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The International Monetary Fund has assured Sri Lanka that it is prepared to continue providing support after the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme ends next March. However, it stressed that completing the remaining review and strengthening the economy should remain the immediate priorities.

Speaking about Sri Lanka at a media briefing on the 2026 Regional Economic Outlook organised by the IMF’s Asia and Pacific Department, Sonali Jain-Chandra, Deputy Director of the IMF’s Asia and Pacific Department, said that whether the Government seeks a new programme after the current EFF arrangement ends will be a decision for the Government itself.

‘There are various ways in which the IMF can support Sri Lanka. This could be through a new financing programme, or through broader policy advice based on surveillance and capacity development. Sri Lanka would benefit considerably from these forms of support,’ she said.

‘I would therefore say that the IMF is ready to support Sri Lanka in whatever way best suits the country’s preference. Although this is a matter to be explored in the coming period, the IMF will continue to be a strong partner for Sri Lanka,’ she assured.

She further stressed: ‘Earlier this month, a staff-level agreement was reached on the seventh review under the Extended Fund Facility. The Executive Board will consider it in the coming weeks. Subsequently, before the programme ends next March, our staff team will visit Sri Lanka for the final review. For now, particular attention should be paid to maintaining macroeconomic stability and continuing to implement key reforms.’