Lebanon has just secured $6 million in aid to strengthen its tax and land systems. This grant, obtained through the Lebanon Financing Facility (LFF), aims to support the Ministry of Finance's reform and digital transformation efforts.
Established in January 2020 following the Beirut port explosion, the LFF brings together representatives from major international donors (European Union, France, Canada, Germany, Norway, Denmark), the United Nations, the Lebanese government, and the World Bank Group, which manages the fund. On Thursday, at the World Bank’s headquarters in Beirut, the partners approved a new phase of support for the ministry.
During the meeting, Finance Minister Yassine Jaber acknowledged that the country is facing serious challenges, but emphasized the opportunities they present. “We are working hard to stabilize our systems, restore public confidence in institutions, and lay the foundations for a sustainable recovery,” he said.
Jaber explained that the aid will help modernize his ministry’s technological and information systems, reform the tax system, centralize and clean up taxpayer databases, streamline treasury operations, enhance interoperability among public platforms, and improve transparency and revenue collection.
He also stressed the need to target public spending better, ensuring that every Lebanese pound spent achieves a measurable outcome.
Beyond foreign aid, the minister emphasized the need for a shift in national strategy. “Assistance, however generous, is not eternal. Lebanon must break its dependence on grants and loans and rebuild itself as a credible state, capable of attracting investment and generating its growth momentum.”
He concluded by calling for continued commitment from international partners, while affirming that success on this path requires time, discipline, and sustained political will.
Comments