Middle East & Central Asia News
LAST UPDATE: July 17, 2025
Egypt says it expects combined IMF review to be completed by October
Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk said Egypt’s combined fifth and sixth IMF programme review will likely finish by September or October 2025, unlocking approximately $2.5 billion, and that privatisations are planned .
Insight
Meeting IMF deadlines and advancing privatizations are essential for Egypt to access funds and push forward necessary fiscal and structural reforms.
Bahrain to announce $17 billion in US deals during Trump talks
Bahrain’s Crown Prince, during a U.S. visit, will announce over $17 billion in deals with American partners—from aviation and defense to tech—highlighting agreements like Boeing/GE aircraft purchases .
Insight
This signals strong U.S.–Gulf economic ties, likely supporting American jobs while bolstering Bahrain’s strategic partnership with the U.S.
Kazakhstan’s largest oilfield has no plans for major maintenance in 2025, operator says
The Tengizchevroil consortium stated that Kazakhstan’s Tengiz oilfield will not undergo major maintenance shutdowns in 2025, ensuring stable production .
Insight
Avoiding large-scale maintenance supports oil output stability, reinforcing Kazakhstan’s revenue and its role in global oil markets.
Pakistan’s HUBCO seeks extension of $51 million guarantees to safeguard coal plants
Hub Power Company (HUBCO) is requesting extension of $51 million in government guarantees to cover potential fines or gaps related to its coal-power plants .
Insight
The request highlights the tension between ensuring energy security via coal and managing financial exposure amid evolving regulation in Pakistan.
