The full parliament will need to confirm the committee's backing in a new vote planned in two weeks. The lawmakers' votes are not binding but carry political weight.

Lawmakers in the committee voted 37 in favour, 11 against and with four abstentions, in what was a secret ballot.

Lagarde was selected in July by EU leaders to replace Mario Draghi from November at the helm of the most powerful financial institution in the bloc.

After the parliament votes, EU leaders will formalise her appointment at a regular summit in mid-October.