The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday concluded the Review of Charges and the Surcharge Policy, which can lower IMF borrowing costs for members by 36 percent, or about US$1.2 billion annually.
“In a challenging global environment and at a time of high interest rates, our membership has reached consensus on a comprehensive package that substantially reduces the cost of borrowing, while safeguarding the IMF’s financial capacity to support countries in need,” Ms. Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF. “This reform helps ensure that the IMF can continue serving our members in a changing world.”
“The approved measures will lower IMF borrowing costs for members by 36 percent, or about US$1.2 billion annually. The expected number of countries subject to surcharges in fiscal year 2026 will fall from 20 to 13,” she said.
“This is achieved by reducing the margin over the SDR interest rate, raising the threshold for level-based surcharges, lowering the rate for time-based surcharges, and increasing the thresholds for commitment fees. The approved package will take effect on November 1, 2024.”
“While substantially lowered, charges and surcharges remain an essential part of the IMF’s cooperative lending and risk management framework, where all members contribute and all can benefit from support when needed. Together, charges and surcharges cover lending intermediation expenses, help accumulate reserves to protect against financial risks, and provide incentives for prudent borrowing. This provides a strong financial foundation that allows the IMF to extend vital balance of payments support on affordable terms to member countries when they need it most.”