The Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning and Development has disclosed that the government is already in discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the resumption of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF).

Minister of Finance Joseph Mwanamvekha confirmed the development on Wednesday at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre shortly after being sworn in as minister.

Mwanamvekha said the government is implementing both short-term and long-term strategies aimed at improving the country’s economic performance.

He further emphasized that the engagement with the IMF is part of broader efforts to restore fiscal stability and boost investor confidence in Malawi’s economy.

The ECF, which provides low-interest loans to support countries with balance of payment problems, has been a key instrument in Malawi’s economic reform agenda.

However, critics argue that the programme’s conditions have sometimes placed pressure on social spending and limited government flexibility.