A new report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised serious concerns about corruption in Pakistan, warning that the country may be losing up to 6.5% of its GDP every year due to weak governance and elite control. This loss greatly affects economic growth, public services, and the trust of ordinary citizens.
According to the report, Pakistan recovered Rs5.3 trillion in the last two years through various anti-corruption efforts. However, the IMF says this amount is only a small part of what the country actually loses. The real cost of corruption is much higher because it slows development, increases poverty, and damages public confidence in state institutions.
The IMF highlights several areas where corruption remains a major problem. These include the sugar export scandal, unclear government procurement processes, and a fragmented accountability system that fails to punish wrongdoing effectively. Judicial delays and weak oversight further limit the country’s ability to enforce the rule of law.
To fix these issues, the IMF has urged Pakistan to introduce strong governance reforms. These include transparent appointments in the judiciary, merit-based selection for judges, and improved systems to monitor government spending. Strengthening institutions and reducing elite influence can help build fairness and stability in the country.
Experts say that if Pakistan improves its anti-corruption measures, the economy could grow faster. The IMF estimates that stronger reforms could boost GDP by up to 6.5% over the next five years, offering hope for better public services, stronger institutions, and a more stable future.
