Jaber Opens IMF Mission Meetings Launching Its Mandate in Lebanon

Finance Minister Yassine Jaber opened, on Tuesday, at the Ministry of Finance, meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission that has launched its mandate in Lebanon, attended by Minister of Economy and Trade Ammar al-Bassam, representatives from the Presidency and Government offices, Banque du Liban, IMF Mission Chief to Lebanon Ernesto Rigo, IMF Representative in Lebanon Yahiya Sa'id, the mission team, General Director of the Ministry of Finance Georges Meraoui, and several officials, advisors, and relevant personnel from the Ministry of Finance.

Before the official meetings began, a preparatory technical session chaired by Minister Jaber took place, involving relevant staff from the Ministry of Finance, focused on reviewing developments in issues under discussion with the IMF, defining the work agenda and priorities for the coming phase, and aligning all financial and banking files within a single, coherent reform path.

The discussions centered on the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework (MTFF) and its linkage to the budget, alongside developing a medium-term revenue strategy, aiming to increase revenues through improving tax collection and enhancing tax compliance—not merely by raising tax burdens. The meeting also reviewed progress made in this area and steps underway to gradually transition toward a more planning-capable and sustainable fiscal management system.

The discussions also covered fiscal measures and reforms implemented or being prepared by the Ministry of Finance, which contribute to strengthening revenues, improving tax administration, and reducing collection gaps, all within a medium-term fiscal vision aligned with budgetary priorities.

In the banking sector, the discussion directly addressed progress achieved following the issuance of the Banks Reform and Restructuring Law (BRL), the remaining steps needed in the banking reform process, and developments related to the Gap Law, aimed at addressing the legacy of the financial crisis and rebuilding a sound, resilient banking sector capable of reclaiming its role in financing the economy.

The IMF mission will continue its meetings in Beirut with the Ministry of Finance, as well as relevant ministries, government agencies, public institutions, and Banque du Liban, to discuss related financial, economic, and reform issues and follow up on required practical steps for the next phase.