IMF says encouraged by Argentina's $2 billion in forex purchases this year

WASHINGTON, Feb 19 (Reuters) - The International Monetary Fund said on Thursday that continued reserve accumulation by Argentina is essential for securing durable access to private credit markets after the central bank has purchased over $2 billion in foreign currency since the start of 2026.

IMF spokesperson Julie Kozack said that recent discussions with Argentine authorities over their reform agenda have been positive.

"Since the start of the year, we've seen very important steps taken to strengthen confidence and external stability in Argentina," Kozack said. "We're especially encouraged by the recent refinements to the monetary and FX regime and the consistent daily purchases of foreign currency to meet Argentina's debt obligations and to rebuild its reserve buffers."

She said that IMF officials agreed with Argentine authorities that having timely, credible, high-quality and impartial data is essential for sound policy making and building trust in financial markets.