IMF Prioritizes Sri Lanka’s Emergency Financing Request | Team to Visit Sri Lanka in Early 2026

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka is set to receive a significant financial lifeline as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) prioritizes the country’s request for emergency assistance under the Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI).

This move comes in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah’s devastating impact, which has strained the nation’s economy and recovery efforts.

An IMF spokesperson confirmed today (7) that Board consideration of Sri Lanka’s RFI request is the top priority at this juncture, signaling urgent support for the country’s immediate needs. The RFI assistance will be in addition to Sri Lanka’s ongoing Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program, which remains a cornerstone of the nation’s economic stabilization strategy.

“In light of the Sri Lankan authorities’ request for emergency financing, IMF Board consideration of the Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI) request is the priority at the current juncture. An IMF team will visit Sri Lanka in early 2026 to resume discussions for the completion of the Fifth Review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF). The support under the RFI is in addition to Sri Lanka’s EFF access,” the spokesperson stated.

In the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah’s devastating impact, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed solidarity with Sri Lanka and confirmed that a request for emergency financial assistance is under review.

Evan Papageorgiou, IMF Mission Chief for Sri Lanka, issued a statement Friday (5) acknowledging the scale of destruction and pledging continued engagement with Sri Lankan authorities during this critical period.

“In the wake of the devastating impact and widespread destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah, we extend our deepest sympathies to the people of Sri Lanka who have been profoundly affected by this disaster,” Papageorgiou said.

The Sri Lankan government has formally requested approximately US$200 million under the IMF’s Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI) — equivalent to 26 percent of the country’s quota. This request is currently under consideration and subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board.

Papageorgiou emphasized the IMF’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s urgent recovery and resilience-building efforts:

“The IMF remains closely engaged with Sri Lankan authorities during this challenging period; and is committed to supporting the country as it undertakes urgent efforts to recover, rebuild and promote resilience for the future.”