Sri Lanka, Nov. 14 -- The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is currently assessing Sri Lanka's recently announced 2026 budget-including its ambitious 7 percent growth target-to determine whether it aligns with the conditions of the country's ongoing bailout program.

At a press briefing yesterday (13), IMF Communications Director Julie Kozack said staff are "reviewing the published budget documents to evaluate whether the 2026 budget is in line with the program parameters," adding that this review will play a key role in the Fund's next decision on Sri Lanka.

The IMF earlier reached a staff-level agreement with Sri Lankan authorities on October 9 for the Fifth Review of the country's Extended Fund Facility (EFF).

Upon approval by the Ex...