An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff mission arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday (10) for discussions with authorities as the country faces a key assessment of its economic reform programme and broader economic outlook.

The IMF team, led by Sri Lanka Mission Chief Evan Papageorgiou is scheduled to remain in the country until 23 September for discussions on the combined Seventh Review under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme and the 2026 Article IV Consultation.

The mission will assess Sri Lanka’s progress in implementing reforms under the IMF-supported programme while reviewing recent developments in economic growth, public finances, revenue mobilisation, foreign-exchange reserves and other key macroeconomic indicators.

The outcome of the review will be closely watched, as successful completion of IMF programme reviews is linked to continued access to financing under the EFF arrangement.

Sri Lanka has made progress in its economic recovery following the severe economic crisis, with improvements reported in economic activity, government revenue and foreign-exchange reserves. However, risks remain, including exposure to external shocks and the need to maintain the momentum of economic reforms.

The 2026 Article IV Consultation will take place alongside the programme review and provide a broader assessment of Sri Lanka’s economic policies, financial conditions and medium-term outlook.

The latest programme information shows an outstanding IMF financial commitment to Sri Lanka of about SDR 1.76 billion as of 31 March 2026. 

The September mission follows an IMF staff visit from 24 to 30 June, during which officials reviewed economic developments, progress under the reform programme and the impact of external shocks on the economy.

The IMF team is expected to communicate its findings at the conclusion of the mission on 23 September.

The Seventh Review is expected to be closely monitored as Sri Lanka continues efforts to strengthen public finances, rebuild foreign-exchange buffers and sustain the economic recovery following the country’s recent crisis.