Pakistan risks crisis: World Bank

But some economists warn the current expansion is heavily reliant on a boom in consumer spending and money sent home by Pakistanis working abroad and that the country produces too few high-value exports.

In the short term, there is particular concern about the government's rising budget deficit and a shortfall in the balance of payments. Both are putting downward pressure on the Pakistani currency, the rupee.

Patel noted that foreign investment and remittances have kept pace and that the stock market has posted gains. The Karachi Stock Exchange's benchmark index closed at a record on Thursday.

However, he forecast that the government would miss its targets for the budget and current account deficits as well as for foreign exchange reserves.

The caretaker administration that left office this week had begun reducing subsidies on fuel prices that have bitten deeply into the government's coffers. The new government must decide where to cut spending and is reportedly eyeing the military budget for possible reductions.

The World Bank said its team discussed changes in oil imports, taxation and "prioritization of expenditures."