IMF Prioritizes Sri Lanka’s Emergency Financing Request; Delegation to Visit Colombo in Early 2026

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has announced that Sri Lanka’s request for emergency financial assistance under the Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI) has been moved to top priority, following the severe economic and social disruptions caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

An IMF spokesperson confirmed on Sunday (7) that the Executive Board is preparing to consider Sri Lanka’s request, adding that the support will come in addition to the country’s existing Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program—an essential pillar of Sri Lanka’s economic recovery.

“In light of the Sri Lankan authorities’ request for emergency financing, IMF Board consideration of the Rapid Financing Instrument 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,” the statement read.

The government has formally sought approximately US$200 million under the RFI—equivalent to 26% of Sri Lanka’s IMF quota—to address the urgent financing gap created by the cyclone’s widespread devastation.

IMF Mission Chief for Sri Lanka, Evan Papageorgiou, expressed deep concern for the country as it struggles to recover.

“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,” he said, adding that the IMF remains “closely engaged and committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s urgent recovery, rebuilding, and long-term resilience efforts.”

The IMF’s renewed engagement signals a critical boost for Sri Lanka as the nation works toward stabilizing its economy while managing the immediate humanitarian challenges caused by the cyclone.